Lab Assistant - Siddique Lab; LAB AST

Job Summary

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for overall laboratory management and operational support. The role ensures laboratories are properly supplied, safely maintained, and compliant with Environmental Health and Safety regulations, while providing oversight of student workers who support routine laboratory functions. The position is also accountable for maintaining plant-parasitic nematode cultures (root-knot nematodes, cyst nematodes, root lesion nematodes) in laboratory and greenhouse settings.

On an annual basis, this role maintains laboratory readiness through coordination of laboratory ordering, oversight of student support efforts, ongoing oversight of equipment condition and safety compliance, and continuous maintenance of nematode cultures.

Apply By Date March 5, 2026 at 11:59pm

Minimum Qualifications – For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology, Plant Pathology, Disease Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related Life Sciences field.
• A minimum of 1 year experience working in a laboratory setting.
• A minimum of 1 year experience working with various plant pathogens including with nematodes.
• Knowledge of biotechnology principles, including terminology, instrumentation, and standard laboratory techniques. Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, including safe chemical handling, inventory control, and usage tracking.
• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment. Ability to select, train, and supervise student employees effectively.
• Skills in projecting laboratory supply needs, managing inventory based on usage patterns, and maintaining adequate stock levels.
• Knowledge of plant parasites relevant to California Agriculture in particular to nematodes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of UC Davis safety procedures for safe chemical handling, inventory and usage.

Key Responsibilities

• 25% – Laboratory Assistance
• 25% – Laboratory Safety and Records
• 20% – Purchasing and Inventory Management
• 20% – Nematode Culture Maintenance
• 10% – Lead Undergraduate Assistants

Department Overview

The Department of Entomology & Nematology is a teaching, research, and extension department within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. The department encompasses disciplines studying arthropods and nematodes, with research grouped into biodiversity, ecology, functional biology, sustainable agriculture, and vector biology. The department prepares the next generation of students to assume leadership in arthropod and nematode sciences through undergraduate and graduate programs.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary: $27.59/hr – $32.85/hr
• Salary Frequency: Bi-Weekly
• UC Job Title: LAB AST 3
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff:
  Career
• Percentage of Time: 100% - Fixed
• Shift (Work Schedule): Monday - Friday, 8:00AM-5:00PM
• Location: Davis, CA
• Union Representation: TX-Technical Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve health, wellness, financial and career goals. See the Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees and for UC Davis Employees, and our Benefits Page for details.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California and your union and finalized in a contract.

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to fit your family’s needs
• UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
• Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
• Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program
• Access to professional development courses and…