Junior Specialist - Blatchford Lab

Position Overview

Salary range: $57,000-$60,700

This position provides technical, scientific, and organizational assistance to Dr. Richard Blatchford’s research on poultry behavior and welfare.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform behavioral research methods, use radiological equipment, and maintain accurate datasets.
• Setup video and x‑ray equipment, use behavioral observation software, and care for large research flocks.
• Travel to remote farm locations, domestic and international, for data collection.
• Analyze data per protocols, assist PI with reports and manuscripts, and write/edit SOPs.
• Conduct literature searches, collaborate with lab members, and communicate findings.
• Maintain lab equipment, track inventory, order supplies, record expenses, and keep safety records.
• Assist PI with scholarly manuscript preparation and attend professional society conferences.
• Train and supervise undergraduate students, visiting scholars, graduate students, staff, and volunteers.

Basic Qualifications (required at time of application)

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Poultry Science, Psychology, Biology, or related field.

Additional Qualifications (required at time of start)

• Valid California driver’s license and good driving record.
• Valid passport for travel.
• Demonstrated multitasking and ability to switch between projects.
• Willingness to learn new techniques.
• Computer skills in Microsoft Office and statistical software.
• Organizational skills: maintaining records, inventory, safety records, and training.
• Ability to work with diverse team and supervise lab members and student interns.
• Ability to conduct library and database searches.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Experience with standard behavioral research techniques and observer reliability.
• Knowledge of poultry management.
• Experience handling large datasets.

UC Davis is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected status under state or federal law.

Davis, CA