Junior Specialist & Assistant Specialist Fangue Laboratory; Dept. of WFCB at UC Davis

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to be involved in interdisciplinary studies focusing on questions in the field of Eco-physiology, relating to aquatic animals’ thermal performance, swimming performance, and behavior near engineered structures. This person may also be involved in aquaculture studies with native fish to the Sacramento/San Joaquin Watersheds.

The position requires the candidate to conduct experiments with fishes, including their environmental tolerances, preferences, and behavior. This may include laboratory-based experimental research and/or field-based observational research utilizing telemetry technologies. Applicant will preferably have experience with CA native anadromous fishes, specifically salmonids, smelt, or sturgeons. This position will be involved in research aimed at improving our understanding of the ecology of native fishes with direct application to the conservation of these imperiled species.

General responsibilities include the care of sensitive fish species, construction/maintenance of experimental systems, and performance of high-quality research in a laboratory or field setting. Working outdoors in various weather conditions; working in Quonset Hut-type laboratories where indoor temperatures can exceed outdoor temperatures; working evenings or weekends to fulfill experimental or test fish maintenance requirements, as well a working during normal working hours in temperature-controlled office and laboratories.

Must be able to move coolers filled with water and fish (up to 50 lbs.); must be able to withstand the weather and temperature‑related working conditions as previously described with possible work as a deckhand on a university boat. Responsibilities may also include maintaining acoustic telemetry equipment in the field/lab, assisting during acoustic transmitter implantation, and assisting in quality control of datasets.

A successful applicant will be required to communicate with funding agencies, assist in writing technical reports, and contribute to the preparation of journal articles. They will attend laboratory and sub‑team meetings, review journal articles, engage in discussions on research and the interpretation of research results, and have the possibility of presenting research findings at technical meetings and professional societies.

The ideal candidate will have strong problem‑solving, interpersonal, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team. They will also have demonstrated the attention to detail required to successfully collect, organize and store data.

Required to hold a 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.

The duties of this position are designated to the following criteria:

Research (90%):
The incumbent will assist in designing and executing studies in consultation with the PI and Project Scientists under the direction of the Laboratory Manager. They will provide feedback on aspects of the studies through brainstorming sessions. They will ensure the health and well‑being of research animals. They will help with collecting and summarizing data, may assist in data analyses, and will provide information to be used for annual and related reports.

They may assist the project by writing annual permitting reports and by participating in lab discussions. They will contribute to any publications resulting from the work. They will adhere to standard UC safety protocols and be active in the lab’s safety culture.

Professional Competence (5%):
The incumbent may be able to participate in regional meetings. The incumbent can also interact with and engage stakeholders and other agencies involved in wildlife management.

University and Public Service (5%):
The incumbent may assist project personnel or participate in university or other groups to improve equity and inclusion in the sciences.

In addition to the duties described above, a successful applicant for the assistant…