Junior Specialist​/Siddique Lab

Position Overview

Salary range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $53,100.

Application Window

Open date: December 18, 2025

Next review date: Wednesday, Jan 7, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Wednesday, Jan 7, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date.

Position Description

Junior Specialist (1.0 FTE) in the Nino Lab, Department of Entomology and Nematology, UC Davis.

The Junior Specialist will support research on root‑knot nematodes resistance in tomato, contributing to molecular, microbiological, and plant‑based workflows. Core responsibilities involve molecular assays (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blots), media preparation, nematode culture maintenance, greenhouse procedures, and related tasks. A team‑oriented mindset and clear communication are essential.

Major Responsibilities and Designated Areas of Expertise Research (80%)

Responsibilities include:

• Assist with greenhouse activities including plant care, inoculations, phenotyping, and harvesting nematode samples.
• Assist with routine lab tasks such as preparing media, pouring plates, and maintaining sterile work spaces.
• Perform molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot, and sample preparation for sequencing or downstream analyses.
• Support nematode culturing, maintenance of Meloidogyne isolates, and preparation of inoculum.
• Assist with experiments involving transgenic plants, including growth, sampling, and phenotypic evaluation.
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks, sample inventories, and digital datasets.
• Participate in general lab upkeep, including restocking supplies and ensuring shared areas remain orderly.

Professional Competence (15%)

• Participate in weekly lab meetings, present project updates, and contribute to group discussions.
• Assist in preparing figures, datasets, or preliminary text for presentations and manuscripts when appropriate.
• Conduct literature searches relevant to project aims and participate in data interpretation with the PI and postdoctoral researchers.
• Opportunities may be available to present research at departmental seminars or local scientific meetings, depending on project involvement and progress.

University and Public Service (5%)

• Participate in occasional departmental outreach activities (e.g., UC Davis events related to plant pathology, nematology, or agricultural science).
• Provide basic guidance or support to undergraduate assistants in the lab when needed, under supervision of the PI or postdoctoral researchers.

Qualifications Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

This position requires a minimum of a Bachelor of Science or equivalent degree (Biology, Entomology, Molecular Sciences, Plant Pathology, Plant Sciences, or similar field).

Note:

The junior specialist rank is an entry level position; accordingly, it is inappropriate to hire applicants with advanced degrees in this field, or those with BS degrees and three years' relevant work experience.

Preferred qualifications (other preferred, but not required, qualifications)

• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis).
• Experience with microbial or nematode culturing, or routine handling of plant‑parasitic nematodes.
• Experience working in greenhouse, growth chamber, or controlled‑environment plant experiments.
• Familiarity with plant‑microbe or plant‑nematode interactions, host‑pathogen assays, or related experimental systems.
• Experience with microscopy (light, dissecting, or fluorescence).
• Experience with data entry and data management, including use of Excel, R, or similar software.
• Demonstrated ability to follow and accurately document laboratory protocols.
• Practical competence in routine molecular or microbiological laboratory procedures (pipetting, buffer/media preparation, sterile work).

Application Requirements Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter – A cover letter that describes your related interests, experiences, and career goals and that describes your interest and qualifications in the position.
• Authorization to Release Information Form – This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form.

Reference requirements

• 3‑5 references (contact information only)

Apply link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./JPF
07442

Help contact: cdhogan

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Job location

Davis, CA

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