DNA Isolation Specialist (LAB AST 2)

University of California - Davis; Davis (CA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits eligible

On-site role

Job summary

University of California - Davis is seeking an entry-level LAB AST 2 to join the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory in Davis. The role focuses on DNA isolation from multiple sources and preparing samples for parentage verification, coat color and disease diagnostic testing.

You will also manage client information in the VGL database and archive samples in storage freezers. The position requires handling DNA extraction robots, reagent preparation, and maintaining equipment.

Qualifications

• No Minimum Education required.
• No Minimum Work Experience required.
• Ability to accurately organize, rearrange, and transfer many small items such as samples while maintaining order
• Skill to be meticulous and detail oriented and to maintain focus on the work at hand in a busy work environment.
• Ability to learn detailed, complicated procedures quickly and to follow detailed instructions or protocols with minimal supervision.
• Skills to manipulate equipment and computer terminals.
• Skill with basic lab tools and techniques (centrifuge, micropipettes, scales).
• Skill to proofread work for accuracy and completeness.

Responsibilities

• 80% - Sample Preparation for Testing
• 15% - Other Laboratory Tasks as Assigned
• 5% - Scanning, Proofing & Filing of Documents

Job description

Job ID: 87968

Location: Davis

Full/Part Time: Full Time

Under general supervision, as a member of the sample receiving/prep group, enter client data and prepare samples for parentage verification, coat color and disease diagnostic testing. Entry level position responsible for all aspects of sample documentation, DNA isolation, and curation. Major functions are: 1) DNA extraction from multiple sources including but not limited to: hair roots, buccal swabs, tissue, semen, and blood, 2) distribution of samples to appropriate testing pipelines via accurate distribution of extracted templates coupled with appropriate digital documentation, and 3) enter/confirm client information in the VGL sample database, retrieve stored DNA/hair samples, and archive frozen DNA, plasma and serum samples in storage freezers. Perform reagent preparation and validation, assisting with cleaning, and maintenance of tools and equipment including DNA extraction robots.

Apply By Date

August 18th 2026 by 11:59PM

Minimum Qualifications

• No Minimum Education required.
• No Minimum Work Experience required.
• Ability to accurately organize, rearrange, and transfer many small items such as samples while maintaining order
• Skill to be meticulous and detail oriented and to maintain focus on the work at hand in a busy work environment.
• Ability to learn detailed, complicated procedures quickly and to follow detailed instructions or protocols with minimal supervision.
• Skills to manipulate equipment and computer terminals.
• Skill with basic lab tools and techniques (centrifuge, micropipettes, scales).
• Skill to proofread work for accuracy and completeness.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a service-oriented unit.
• Knowledge/skill of DNA extractions techniques from multiple sources including hair, buccal swabs, tissues, and plasma/serum.
• Skill to effectively prioritize tasks on a daily basis while adjusting to fluctuating sample numbers and the needs of other staff members.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively troubleshoot.

Key Responsibilities

• 80% - Sample Preparation for Testing
• 15% - Other Laboratory Tasks as Assigned
• 5% - Scanning, Proofing & Filing of Documents

Department Overview

Be part of an internationally recognized and accredited laboratory that provides expert DNA testing for various animal species. The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory provides animal parentage verification, identification, forensics services, genetic diagnostics, and genetic research for a broad range of domestic species as well as primates and wildlife species. We are looking for a representative to work in this non-profit laboratory that is part of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and strives to provide highly accurate DNA testing for animals while also promoting education and scientific advancement in animal genetics. VGL is currently located on the Davis campus but will be relocating to AggieSquare on the UC Davis Sacramento campus ~ Date TBD 2027

Department Specific Job Scope

This position serves as the first step in our service pipeline, performing DNA isolation that is required before any downstream laboratory work can occur. No other testing or analysis can be completed without this function.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $27.10/hr - $32.65/hr
• Salary Frequency: Bi-weekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC Job Title: LAB AST 2
• UC Job Code: 009603
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
• Location: Davis
• Union Representation: TX-Technical Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources