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University of California, Davis

Junior Specialist-Fink/Halmai Lab

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What they do

A Research Associate typically has more experience than a Research Assistant. Responsibilities can include the planning and design of research projects, conducting experiments, analyzing data, contributing to research publications or grant proposals, and collaborating with other researchers. Works in a variety of fields within science or the social sciences, in programs based at a university or research institution, or works on government or industry sponsored research projects. Conducts field or library research or recruits participants for a study; may also assist with legal research. These roles are often held by people with advanced degrees in their field of study with several years of experience in research or academia.

$77,239 / year median in California

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Job Description

Position overview Salary range:
Exempt:
A reasonable estimate for this position is $57,000 at Step 1 or $60,700 at Step 2.
Non- Exempt:
A reasonable estimate for this position is $27.40/hr at Step 1 or $29.18/hr at Step 2.
Application Window Open date:
September 9, 2026 Next review date: Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date:
Wednesday, Jun 30, 2027 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 Department of Neurology at the University of California Davis, School of Medicine is recruiting for a full-time Junior Specialist(s) in the area of genetic neurological disorders and gene therapy.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE
The Junior Specialist has the general duties of working closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) in the planning and execution of a research project. The junior specialist may assist in data collection, entry and quality control, study design and implementation, literature reviews and data analysis for preparation of manuscripts or conference presentations, and writing conference abstracts and manuscripts (e.g., methods and results sections, table, and figure generation) for a particular project. The incumbent will work under the supervision of Drs. Kyle Fink and Julian Halmai and have the ability to work cooperatively and collegially in a diverse environment.
I. RESEARCH
(90% Effort) A. The incumbent will collaborate with other research personnel affiliated with research activities involving the in vivo study of genetic neurological conditions using transgenic mice. The junior specialist will perform technical/routine lab activities required to accomplish the research project in specialized areas.
Specific duties may include:
1) Effectively plan and execute specific research project(s). 2) Perform cloning and vector packaging. 3) Perform cryosectioning and immunohistochemistry from mouse brains. 4) Perform imaging and analysis of mouse tissue using both high content microscopy and high-resolution imaging 5) Perform molecular isolation of DNA/RNA/protein from mouse tissue and perform appropriate downstream analysis (RT-qPCR, Western Blot) under the supervision of the PI. 6) Review journal manuscripts and/or other related to the specialized area of expertise.
II. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE
(5% Effort) The appointee will be expected to actively participate in the dissemination of information at the Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Seminar Series, the Fink and Halmai lab meetings, participate and contribute to departmental and other seminars, journal clubs and other activities, as applicable.
III. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE
(5% Effort) The Junior Specialist may be expected to provide mentorship to undergraduate research assistants that rotate through the lab. They will be expected to participate and contribute to laboratory and group meetings, committee service, and other activities, as applicable. Qualifications Basic qualifications (required at time of application) Research experience in genetics, gene therapy, animal modeling Experience working in a research laboratory or using specific research methods techniques such as RT-qPCR, Western Blot, PCR, microscopy Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make critical decisions Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills Excellent written and oral communication skills Additional qualifications (required at time of start) Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) with a major in Biology or a related field Proficient in AAV packaging Proficient in performing DNA/RNA extraction Proficient in performing protein isolations Experience with data entry and management. Preferred qualifications (other preferred, but not required, qualifications for the position) Experience in molecular assays Experience in cloning Knowledge of gene therapy Application Requirements Document requirements Cover Letter (Optional) Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V. Statement of Research (Optional) Authorization to Release Information Form - This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form. Statement of Teaching (Optional) Reference requirements 3-5 required (contact information only) Apply link: Help contact: margodfrey@ucdavis.edu About UC Davis As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer. UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
APM - 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
UC RECRUIT
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 Sacramento, CA

Benefits

  • Dental Insurance