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: July 15, 2026 Next review date: Friday, Jul 31, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date:

Tuesday, Sep 15, 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 This position provides technical, scientific, and organizational assistance to Dr. Tiffany Lowe-Power's research in the Department of Plant Pathology, which focuses on using molecular, genetic, genomic, and plant infection assays to understand pathogenic behavior and ecological success of Ralstonia wilt pathogens. Research (90%) The Junior Specialist will be required to perform diverse molecular microbiology assays, maintain accurate and organized datasets, serve as the safety coordinator, purchase supplies for the lab, train undergraduate students to keep sterile consumable materials stocked for the lab. An ability to multi-task and manage time is a must. Resourcefulness, strong attention to detail, and the ability to adapt fluidly as research projects progress will be important for success. Ability to maintain a solution-oriented attitude while troubleshooting is essential. They will be able to effectively communicate with a diverse array of colleagues in written and verbal form. The Junior Specialist will conduct microbiology, biochemistry, and microscopy assays to decipher the mechanisms enabling dormancy and survival during prolonged nutrient starvation and resuscitation when nutrients become available. The junior specialist might genetically engineer bacterial strains, depending on project need. The junior specialist might contribute to analysis of large datasets like RNAseq, pangenomes, DAP-Seq, or RB-TnSeq. The junior specialist is expected to actively growth their research skills by taking notes during training, referring to their notes, synthesizing new information into their understanding, reading manuals and troubleshooting guides, repeating protocols to hone their skill, and training others in the lab. The Junior Specialist will learn to analyze data according to established protocols and assist in formatting data for presentations and publications. They will learn to use statistical analysis software programs, including Graphpad Prism. They will keep detailed laboratory notes documenting benchtop and data analysis work. As a full-time lab member, this position includes responsibility for maintaining safety standards and meeting regulatory requirements, staff training and mentoring (undergraduate student technicians), and general laboratory maintenance. The Junior Specialist will assist lab members in consistent maintenance of lab equipment, and general upkeep of lab space. They will improve the inventory of bacterial cryostocks. They will help ensure that supplies are well stocked, and order supplies as needed. They will help keep track of chemical and safety records. This is a 100% on site position. General work hours are Mon-Fri 8hrs/day. Occasional long hours and/or weekends will be required based on laboratory and department needs.

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY

(5%) a. The Junior Specialist will offer technical and creative contributions to the manuscript preparation. b. The Junior Specialist will conduct literature searches for articles relevant to the research topic, engage in discussions of data with the Principal Investigators, and contribute to manuscript preparation and presentation of research findings. University and Public Service (5%) As a full-time lab member, this position includes responsibility for maintaining safety standards and meeting regulatory requirements, staff training and mentoring (undergraduate student technicians), and general laboratory maintenance. The Junior Specialist will assist lab members in consistent maintenance of lab equipment, and general upkeep of lab space. They will improve the inventory of bacterial cryostocks. They will help ensure that supplies are well stocked, and order supplies as needed. They will help keep track of chemical and safety records. Qualifications Basic qualifications (required at time of application) BS in microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, cell biology or related field. Knowledge of microbiology techniques and terminology Previous laboratory or comparable experience Experience working safely with regulated bacterial pathogens Ability to bend, squat, crouching and to pull and lift up to 50 pounds

NOTE:

The junior specialist rank is an entry level position; accordingly, it is inappropriate to hire applicants with advanced degrees in this field, or those with BS degrees and three years' relevant work experience Preferred qualifications (other preferred, but not required, qualifications for the position) The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal, communication, and an interest in basic science; as well as the ability to work well independently and as part of a team. The ideal candidate will have skills to organize work activity, follow standard operating procedures with strict attention to detail, flexibility to adapt to a changing environment and workload, and work independently and efficiently in a high throughput laboratory under supervision to meet standard laboratory turnaround times. The ideal candidate will have the ability to complete job assignments in a timely manner to meet critical deadlines. Experience in basic laboratory practices including sterile technique, pipetting, preparing solutions and media. Skilled in Excel, Microsoft Word, KBase, Graphpad Prism The candidate should understand fundamental microbiology concepts as well as basic genetic principles. Experience with DNA extraction, PCR amplification, gel electrophoresis, sterile technique, and microbiology are preferred. Application Requirements Document requirements Curriculum Vitae

• Your most recently updated C.V. Cover Letter
• The statement of purpose should describe your previous research experience and academic accomplishments, how your expertise aligns with ongoing research in the lab, your career goals, and how this position will help you achieve your career goals Authorization to Release Information Form
• This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments.

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• 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment To implement this process, UC Davis requires all applicants for any open search to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled, "Authorization to Release Information" into

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as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration. UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco-free campus. 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 or 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. The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Our excellence in research, teaching, and service are embodied by members of our academic community who share our commitment to these values. A variety of resources and programs are available to academics, staff, and students that reflect the core values reflected in our strategic plan: "To Boldly Go," our Principles of Community, the Office of Academic Affairs' Mission Statement, and the UC Board of Regents Policy 4400. UC Davis is also a national leader in inclusive practice. There are numerous links available on the About Us webpage where you can learn more about our administration, campus rankings, locations, campus safety, sustainability, visiting UC Davis and UC Davis Health. The university is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for campus sustainability practices by the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. UC Davis is focused on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and repeatedly shown its commitment to preserving a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come. The University of California and UC Davis are committed to offering a wide variety of benefits for employees. The University of California Employee benefits and UC Davis New Employee benefits webpages have additional information. As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. Job location Davis, CA