UC Davis Bodega Marine Lab: Postdoc, White Abalone

Society for Integrative & Comparative Biology; Davis (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biological research organization is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join the WAC Lab at UC Davis. The role involves leading studies on gonad development and spawning behaviors in critically endangered white abalone. Candidates should hold a PhD in relevant fields and possess strong experimental skills in reproductive physiology and marine invertebrate care. The position is based at the UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory, with applications accepted until filled, prioritizing those received by March 20, 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD in reproductive physiology, biology, or marine biology.
• Experience with experimental sperm cryopreservation and behavioral science.
• Proficient in culturing and caring for marine invertebrates.

Responsibilities

• Lead studies to improve gonad development in white abalone.
• Develop protocols for spawning behavior in captive rearing programs.
• Refine sperm cryopreservation methods for white abalone.

Skills

Experience in reproductive physiology

Behavioral ecology analysis

Experience with marine invertebrates

Strong communication skills

Experimental biology skills

Education

PhD in related field

Job description

The White Abalone Culture (WAC) Lab, led by Dr. Alyssa Frederick at the UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory, is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow with experience in reproductive physiology, sperm cryopreservation, experimental biology, and/or behavioral ecology/analysis. The primary role of the postdoc will be to lead laboratory studies focused on improving gonad development and rate of successful spawning behaviors in critically endangered white abalone.

Potential primary research topics include:

• Establish more reliable methods of gametogenesis in white abalone
• Identify the biological and environmental factors that promote consistent spawning behavior and develop practical protocols to apply these findings in captive rearing programs
• Contribute to ongoing development and refinement of sperm cryopreservation methods for white abalone

The position will be located oceanside at the UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory in Bodega Bay, CA.

Desired Qualifications include:

• PhD in reproductive physiology, biology, marine biology, sperm cryopreservation behavioral ecology, or related field
• Experience in physiology and behavioral science laboratory skills (wide range considered)
• Experience culturing and caring for marine invertebrates
• Experience in spawning marine invertebrates
• Experience with experimental sperm cryopreservation
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments involving live animals, including biological and behavioral measurements
• Track record demonstrating a commitment to publishing research findings
• Strong written and oral communication skills with significant motivation to publish in peer‑reviewed literature
• Strong interest in team‑based interdisciplinary science, with the willingness and ability to work independently when required
• Mentorship experience of students and junior scientists

Interested candidates should email Dr. Alyssa Frederick ([e-mail]) with a cover letter, a one‑page statement of research interests, and a CV with the subject line “WAC Lab postdoc”. The position is open until filled with the priority of applications received by March 20, 2026.