Junior Specialist - Muth Lab_Nest Construction

Position overview

Salary range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000 at Step 1 or $58,600 at Step 2.

Open date: October 14, 2025

Most recent review date: Wednesday, Oct 29, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Friday, Jan 23, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

The Department of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior at the University of California, Davis invites applications for a Junior Specialist (JPF
07332) in the Muth  Construction.

Research (90%)
This position is a research-based position conducting experiments on the construction behavior of bumblebees. The duties of the junior specialist will include: setting up microcolonies of bumblebees, maintaining microcolonies and colonies (feeding, cleaning), 3-D printing experimental apparatus, collecting data daily on experimental progression, typing data up into excel. Data analysis and writing will be conducted by the PI but the junior specialist will have the opportunity to learn some of these skills if they so wish (but is optional).

The candidate will utilize their experience conducting research, preferably related to animal behavior, with an emphasis on bees and/or work conducted in field settings such as pollination studies.

Professional competence (5%)
The candidate will be expected to actively contribute to the weekly lab meeting and will present to that same forum an average of 2 times a year on the research progress made. The candidate will be allowed to engage in public outreach activities that include presenting scientific research results to the general public.

Service (5%)
The incumbent will act as a mentor for undergraduate volunteers in the lab, and provide training in lab procedures.

Lab:
Department: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)
Candidate must have an earned Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree). They should have experience with instrumentation and research equipment, software programs and research methodology.

Additional qualifications (required at time of start)
The candidate should demonstrate competence in the use of basic computer programs, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and related applications. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent organizational skills and the ability to execute experiments with precision. The role requires a strong work ethic, effective communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Document requirements

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Authorization to Release Information Form - This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form.

Reference requirements

• 2 required (contact information only)

Please submit the names and email addresses of 3 references.

Apply link: /JPF
07332

Help contact: kmismith

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
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