Junior Specialist - Plant Transformation Facility (PTF)

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

The Plant Transformation Facility (PTF) in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at UC Davis seeks to fill a 50% position at the Junior Specialist level starting Fall 2026. This position is located on the UC Davis main campus and has a duration of one year, with the possibility of renewal pending funding availability.

Research in the PTF centers on developing and improving genome editing technologies in plants. The Junior Specialist will provide technical and scientific support to the research program in the specific areas of molecular biology, plant development and plant transformation.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE

I. RESEARCH IN SPECIALIZED AREAS (90% EFFORT)
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following research activities:

1. Plant, care, analyze, and harvest plants obtained through CRISPR gene editing in the growth chamber and the greenhouse.
2. Collect samples and perform large-scale DNA extractions from different plants species and tissues generated at PTF, including grape, strawberry, tomato, lettuce, wheat, barley. Genotype plants by PCR, analysis of the PCR in agarose gel, and prepare libraries for amplicon sequencing. Incumbent will analyze and report the results.
3. Design and generate vectors for CRISPR gene editing projects.
4. Maintain lab notebooks and data files for all research activities.
5. Help record and update the lab chemical inventory, maintain the proper operation of instruments, and coordinate waste pickups.
6. Contribute to the development of project reports and manuscripts by preparing data figures and tables as well as reviewing drafts of reports and manuscripts. The Junior Specialist will also conduct literature reviews relevant to the research topic using electronic databases and journal articles. In addition, the Junior Specialist will present research results at lab meetings where all lab members will be present.

II. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5% EFFORT)
The Jr. Specialist will participate in the annual Plant Sciences Symposium as a poster presenter.

III. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% EFFORT)
The Junior Specialist will participate in outreach activities led by the Manager of PTF.

A. Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, Plant Biology, Genetics, or a related field (must be obtained at the time of appointment).
B. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA extractions from plant tissues, PCR reactions, and cloning.
C. Experience in conducting experiments and collecting data in a research environment.
D. Proficiency in word processing, Excel, and PowerPoint.
E. Excellent written and oral communication skills.