Jr. Specialist- Tian Lab

Open date: September 10, 2025

Next review date: Sunday, Mar 1, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Thursday, Sep 10, 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 Tian Lab in the Department of Plant Sciences at UC Davis seeks to fill a full-time position at the Junior Specialist level starting Winter 2026. This position is for one year, with the possibility of renewal pending funding availability. The successful candidate will be responsible for the generation as well as the molecular, biochemical, and physiological characterization of CRISPR/Cas9-edited wheat plants.

They will also analyze the expression of candidate genes involved in biochemical and physiological processes in tissues of tree crops collected from field experiments.

The successful candidate will have completed an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, Plant Biology, Genetics, or a related field, with demonstrated experience working with plants in the laboratory, growth chamber, greenhouse, and field settings. They will work closely with the Principal Investigator and other lab members, actively participating in research, analyzing data, engaging in research discussions, and contributing to the preparation of research results for publications and presentations;

these will be accomplished by preparing data figures and tables as well as reviewing drafts of reports and manuscripts. The Junior Specialist will also provide support for student training and help maintain laboratory organization and safety. In addition, the candidate is required to hold valid driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program as the Jr.

Specialist position requires traveling via car to the Central Valley for tissue collection.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE
I. RESEARCH IN SPECIALIZED AREAS (90% EFFORT)
A. The Junior Specialist will work closely with other lab members to plan and execute experiments aimed at enhancing wheat nutritional traits and understanding tree crops' responses to the environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for the following research activities:
1) Performing molecular, biochemical, and physiological characterizations of wheat plants obtained through CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing.
2) Collecting and preparing samples as well as assessing changes in the expression of candidate genes in tree crops exposed to different environmental conditions and treatments.
3) Analyzing research results obtained from
1) and
2) independently.
4) Planting, maintaining, harvesting wheat plants in the growth chamber and greenhouse.
B. The Junior specialist will help record and update the lab chemical inventory, maintain the proper operation of instruments, and coordinate waste pickups.
C. The Junior Specialist will contribute to the development of project reports and manuscripts by preparing data figures and tables as well as reviewing drafts of reports and manuscripts. The Junior Specialist will also conduct literature reviews relevant to the research topic using electronic databases and journal articles. The Junior Specialist will present research results at lab meetings.

II. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5% EFFORT)
A. The Junior Specialist will maintain lab notebooks and data files for all research activities.
B. The candidate will mentor undergraduate students in performing research protocols and data analysis. They will participate in the annual Plant Sciences Symposium as a poster presenter.
C. The candidate is encouraged to become a member of the Phytochemical Society of North America.

III. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% EFFORT)
A. The Junior Specialist will volunteer at the Picnic Day.
B. The candidate is encouraged to join the Young Members Committee of the Phytochemical Society of North America.

Per UCD-APM 330, it is inappropriate to appoint an individual with a Master's or Doctoral degree in the relevant discipline or a baccalaureate degree plus three or more years of experience as a Junior Specialist. Candidates who hold a Masters or Doctoral degree will be disqualified from this search.

A. Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, Plant Biology, Genetics, or a related field (must be obtained at the time of appointment).
B. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA extractions from plant tissues, PCR reactions, and cloning.
C. Experience in organizing experiments and collecting data in a research environment.
D.…