Junior Specialist - Dr. Marsh-Armstrong Lab, UC Davis Eye Center

Position Overview

Salary range: $55,000 at Step 1 or $58,600 at Step 2.

Junior Specialist Position

Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science

UC Davis School of Medicine

The laboratory of Dr. Nicholas Marsh-Armstrong conducts basic science research involving retinal and optic nerve cellular and molecular biology, genome engineering, and imaging experiments principally in Xenopus laevis, but also in other vertebrate animals including mice and non-human primates. The laboratory also manages the Tupper Hall Xenopus Facility, and official UC Davis Animal Facility.

Major Responsibilities & Designated Areas of Expertise:

• Participate in planning, execution, and presentation of experiments involving cellular and molecular biology, protein biochemistry, histology and animal surgery as well as imaging.
• Perform laboratory managerial duties, including ordering, updating of inventories, managing compliance with regulatory requirements, and assisting with maintenance of equipment and supplies.
• Take leadership role in care of frog colony, with assistance of other lab personnel.
• Independently carry out experiments related to an assigned project or projects.
• Assist in activities related to research being carried out by others in the lab, as needed.
• Attend and occasionally present at a weekly lab meeting held together with other laboratories.
• Generate novel DNA reagents by molecular biology.
• Generate genetically modified Xenopus.
• Maintain careful records of all experiments.
• Communicate with various University entities.
• Communicate with other laboratories and/or sponsors if needed.

• Manage datasets, records, and research documentation related to the laboratory.
• Manage datasets, records, and research documentation related to the Xenopus facility.
• Educate and mentor volunteer and students in the laboratory as required.
• Establish and maintain lines of genetically modified frogs.
• Prepare reagents and maintain facilities.
• Update/modify standard laboratory and animal facility procedures.
• Ensure regulatory deadlines are met.

• Prepare manuscripts for publications in collaboration with the principal investigator.
• Present research findings to a larger audience at scientific conferences or meetings.
• Mentor undergraduate students and help mentor graduate students, including rotation students, from UC Davis.
• Actively contribute to lab activities through staff meetings and presentations to colleagues and researchers from various scientific communities.

• Participate in activities in this domain as deemed appropriate and as recommended by PI.

• High degree of self‑motivation and attention to detail.
• Good organization skills.
• Some molecular biology and/or other laboratory experience.
• Some experience working with research animals.
• Able to learn new software applications to support research studies.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Minimum of one year of experience in undergraduate laboratory research.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently.
• Ability to mentor undergraduates in the lab.

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research (Optional)
• Authorization to Release Information Form – required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments.
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

• 3–5 references (contact information only)

Open date:
February 19, 2026

Review date:
Saturday, Mar 7, 2026

Final date:
Thursday, Feb 18, 2027

Davis, CA

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 for federal law.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E‑Verify check.