Assistant Specialist - Schreier Lab

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise (e.g., with instrumentation and research equipment or with social science research methods) in the planning and execution of research projects in the Genomic Variation Laboratory. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization, in this case conservation genetics and genomics. Within this area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Master’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology or Animal Science, or Bachelor degree in Biology plus two or more years of research experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience processing and analyzing bulk genetic samples from various fish and wildlife populations. Experience using various molecular techniques including, but not limited to DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, qPCR, RADseq library prep, capillary electrophoresis (ABI3730xl DNA Analyzer experience strongly preferred), integrated fluidic circuits (IFCs) SNP genotyping assay techniques (Fluidigm experience strongly preferred), DNA fragmentation by sonication, sample prep for Sanger sequencing, quantifying genomic DNA samples, DNA clean-up and size selection, and environmental DNA techniques. Experience collecting tissue samples for genetic analysis. Experience analyzing microsatellite data, qPCR data, SNP genotype data, utilizing online genetic databases to genetically identify unknown samples, and completing parentage analysis. Experience assisting in sample and supply inventory management, training new lab members, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting, writing and editing SOPs, and maintaining laboratory safety compliance and documentation.

SALARY: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE

I. RESEARCH IN SPECIALIZED AREAS (75% EFFORT)

A. Collaborate with other research and extension personnel affiliated with research activities involving conservation genetics and genomics of fish and wildlife species. Evaluation of performance in research activities or in outreach activities as deemed applicable to the individual project in specialized areas, as documented by any of the following:

1. Publications that acknowledge the Specialist's significant and meaningful contribution to the work.
2. Publications on which the Specialist is an author.
3. Other evidence (e.g., letters from collaborators or principal investigators) that work done by the Specialist contributed to publishable research.
4. Other evidence of recognized expertise may include formal documentation of intellectual effort and participation in publishable research activities, first authorship on publications/patents, presentation of research at regional/national meetings, invitations to review grant proposals and/or journal articles, invitations to participate in research projects, and/or service on advisory panels

B. Serve as a research coordinator for conservation genetics and genomics projects conducted by PIs in the department, as resources permit. Responsible for ensuring uninterrupted communication between individual laboratories, data management and preparation of reports tailored to meet the needs of the requesting individual(s).

II. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (15% EFFORT)

A. Participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations
B. Review research proposals, journal manuscripts, and publications related to area of expertise.

III. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (10% EFFORT)

A. May maintain liaison and respond to the needs of various industry organizations, state and federal agencies, and other external groups on issues related to area of expertise.
B. Volunteer time towards community outreach/education. Train and supervise external interns to facilitate collaborative learning.

Applicants should submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae. Documents/materials must be submitted as PDF files. Applicants should also provide contact information for three references. All letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law.

TO APPLY: To apply, please go to the following link: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF04304

QUESTIONS: Please direct any questions to Andrea Schreier, amdrauch@ucdavis.edu

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://policy.ucop.edu/dod4000376/NondiscrimAffirmAct.

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 UCSC positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. More information is available http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify.

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If you need accommodation due to a disability, please contact the recruiting department.

Master’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology or Animal Science, or Bachelor degree in Biology plus two or more years of research experience.

Experience processing and analyzing bulk genetic samples from various fish and wildlife populations. Experience using various molecular techniques including, but not limited to DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, qPCR, RADseq library prep, capillary electrophoresis (ABI3730xl DNA Analyzer experience strongly preferred), integrated fluidic circuits (IFCs) SNP genotyping assay techniques (Fluidigm experience strongly preferred), DNA fragmentation by sonication, sample prep for Sanger sequencing, quantifying genomic DNA samples, DNA clean-up and size selection, and environmental DNA techniques. Experience collecting tissue samples for genetic analysis. Experience analyzing microsatellite data, qPCR data, SNP genotype data, utilizing online genetic databases to genetically identify unknown samples, and completing parentage analysis. Experience assisting in sample and supply inventory management, training new lab members, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting, writing and editing SOPs, and maintaining laboratory safety compliance and documentation.

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

• Cover Letter

• Statement of Contributions to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - Contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion documented in the application file will be used to evaluate applicants. Visit https://academicaffairs.ucdavis.edu/faculty-equity-and-inclusion for guidelines about writing a statement and why one is requested.
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