Junior Specialist: Plant Genome Editing & Transformation

University of California; Davis (CA); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Part time

Job summary

University of California, Davis is seeking a Junior Specialist (50% time) to support the Plant Transformation Facility on the main campus. The role runs for one year starting Fall 2026 with potential renewal based on funding.

It focuses on genome editing in plants and supporting ongoing projects in molecular biology, development, and transformation. The successful candidate will perform CRISPR-related work, DNA/RNA extractions, PCR genotyping, data management, and reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required or anticipated at appointment.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques and data handling.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Plant care, analysis, and harvest of CRISPR-edited plants.
• Perform large-scale DNA/RNA extractions and PCR-based genotyping.
• Design and generate CRISPR vectors for editing projects.
• Maintain lab notebooks and data files.
• Manage lab inventory and coordinate waste disposal.
• Prepare figures and tables for reports and manuscripts; conduct literature reviews.
• Present research results at lab meetings.
• Participate in the Plant Sciences Symposium as a poster presenter.
• Engage in outreach activities led by the PTF manager.

Skills

Molecular biology

DNA/RNA extraction

PCR

Cloning

Data analysis

Communication skills

Excel

PowerPoint

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, Plant Biology, Genetics, or related field

Job description

University of California, Davis is seeking a Junior Specialist (50% time) to support the Plant Transformation Facility on the main campus. The role runs for one year starting Fall 2026 with potential renewal based on funding.

It focuses on genome editing in plants and supporting ongoing projects in molecular biology, development, and transformation. The successful candidate will perform CRISPR-related work, DNA/RNA extractions, PCR genotyping, data management, and reporting.