Junior Specialist-GVL Lab

Position Overview

Salary range: $55,000-$58,600

The Genomic Variation Laboratory (GVL) in the Department of Animal Science seeks a Junior Specialist with expertise in field deployable genetic testing, particularly CRISPR-based assays. Among other projects, the candidate will assist staff scientists and graduate students to conduct experiments that support improving the field deployability of SHERLOCK genetic tests developed in the GVL. These include testing various approaches to reaction lyophilization and characterizing sensitivity of SHERLOCK assays on the 3D printed DIYNAFLUOR fluorescence reading platform.

The candidate will also assist a graduate student in developing an inexpensive, 3D printed heat block with a wide temperature range (20-95

C) that will enable performing all steps of a SHERLOCK reaction outside of a laboratory environment. Other duties will include DNA extraction and microfluidic SNP genotyping to support the US Fish and Wildlife Service Early Delta Smelt Monitoring program, microsatellite genotyping of Kootenai River white sturgeon, preparation of eDNA metabarcoding libraries, and occasional fieldwork assisting students or staff in collecting environmental or biological samples.

The candidate will also participate in preparation of conference presentations, reports, and manuscripts stemming from these projects.

Research 95%

The Junior Specialist will be working primarily in the GVL lab space in Meyer Hall and will be expected to perform SHERLOCK reaction lyophilization, run SHERLOCK assays on various instruments, extract DNA or RNA from multiple sample types for SHERLOCK testing or genotyping (SNP or microsatellite), perform PCR and qPCR, and prepare and submit eDNA metabarcoding libraries for sequencing at the UC Davis DNA Technologies and Expression Analysis Core.

The candidate will be actively involved in the design and testing of portable heat block prototypes for field deployable SHERLOCK testing; therefore prior experience with CAD is preferred. The candidate will also be performing some data analysis, with guidance from graduate students and staff.

The candidate will occasionally be working in the field to support graduate student and staff scientist research. These activities could include water sampling for eDNA detection or capture of songbirds for tissue sampling.

The candidate will also work alongside the GVL lab manager to order supplies, as needed, curate incoming samples, and maintain the lab's chemical inventory. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required. The candidate will attend and contribute to the weekly GVL lab meeting when it does not conflict with mandatory fieldwork days.

University and Public Service 5%

The Assistant Specialist will have the opportunity to mentor undergraduate students interested in learning molecular techniques. They may also elect to participate in the GVL Picnic Day exhibit. The candidate may also be asked to train visiting scholars, graduate students, staff, volunteers, and collaborators in laboratory procedures.

• Bachelors degree in Genetics, Genomics, Biotechnology or related fields by the position start date (7/1/26)

• Prior experience with multifluidic SNP genotyping
• Prior experience performing microsatellite genotyping
• Prior experience developing laboratory protocols
• Prior experience performing CRISPR-based genetic testing
• Prior experience extracting DNA from various sample types
• Prior experience with PCR or qPCR
• Experience with 3D printing and CAD design
• Ability to conduct research independently or in a team
• Strong written verbal and communication skills
• Demonstrated experience multitasking and fluidly switching between projects
• Valid driver's license

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.

To implement…