Jr. Specialist Dr. Hong Ji Lab Job Davis area,California USA,Research/Development

Position: Jr. Specialist for Dr. Hong Ji Lab

Position Overview

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

Application Window

Open date: June 18, 2026

Most recent review date: Friday, Jul 3, 2026 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, Jul 24, 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.

Position Description

The California National Primate Research Center at the University of California, Davis, has an opening for a part‑time, non‑tenured, academic term appointments as a Junior Specialist for Dr. Hong Ji's lab in our Respiratory Diseases Unit. The successful candidate will participate in all aspects of research on topics such as epigenetics, respiratory diseases, childhood asthma and environmental exposures by working closely with the research team under the direction of the PI.

Research models used in the lab include mammalian cell culture, animal models and human specimen. Related responsibilities include design and perform experiments, record data, assist in lab management, data management/analysis/presentation and grant/report writing and participate in training activities.

In general, 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 with the specialized methods as a Junior Specialist.

Detailed responsibilities are as follows:

Responsibilities

RESEARCH IN SPECIALIZED AREAS (90% EFFORT)

Follow established protocols and perform molecular and cellular techniques such as nucleic acid extraction, PCR, pyrosequencing, qPCR, plasmid cloning, ELISA, western blotting, ChIP-seq, flow cytometry, etc.

Maintain cell culture and perform experiments following protocols.

Maintain mice colonies and assist in the establishment of animal models.

Characterize mouse models, including measuring airway hyperresponsiveness, collecting Bronchoalveolar Lavage cells, collecting tissues (lungs, spleens, etc.).

Acquire biological specimens at necropsy of rhesus monkeys (bronchial epithelial cells, etc.).

Perform sample processing and assist with characterization of histology.

Assist with management of undergraduate research assistants.

Facilitate graduate students' and postdoc's research projects.

Contribute to the drafting/editing of manuscripts, grant proposals, and research reports.

Data Collection and Data Management

Collect molecular and cellular data from cell culture and animal models.

Assist with epigenomic data collection from cell culture and animal models.

Perform statistical analysis on quantitative data.

Manage collected data, ensuring robust backup systems are in place.

Prepare solutions, media, and buffers as needed.

Use laboratory equipment including pyro sequencer, thermocycler, microscopes, centrifuges, Flexivent, etc.

Clean equipment and lab spaces.

Maintain laboratory and animal records.

Assistance with maintenance of equipment and supplies.

Participate in group meetings.

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5% EFFORT)

The candidate will be expected to actively contribute to all lab meetings, and will present on the research progress made.

The candidate will attend seminars and may present research results and is encouraged to interact with professional interest groups.

UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% EFFORT)

Participate in mentoring undergraduate students.

Participate in activities of committees within the department, college, campus and other University entities, as appropriate.

Work Environment

Measles vaccination or proof of illness required. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy.

Employee shall participate in required preventative medical and medical monitoring programs which may include blood tests, immunizations, TB screening, Blood borne and Airborne Pathogen training, etc., and are provided to meet Federal,…