SRA 3 Diagnostics Research Associate

Department Purpose The Vegetable and Field crop Pathology (VFP) lab, run by Dr. Cassandra Swett, is based in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of California, Davis. The lab is a member of the California-based Western National Plant Diagnostics Network and diagnoses over 250 samples per year spanning over 30 different crops. Diagnoses are conducted to enable grower decision making (in collaboration with farm advisors) and function to support 30+ research projects annually within the Swett lab group and by cooperators. The diagnostics lab functions to fill critical gaps unmet by other diagnostics labs, including analysis of new diseases and diseases that cannot be identified by traditional methods, development of new diagnostics and detection tools, characterization of new pathogens, and which includes training of diagnosticians. The diagnostics lab also functions as a source of pathogen isolates for the VFP fungal culture depository, which is used to support dozens of statewide research projects annually. You can learn more at our website: Please direct any questions about this position to Cassandra Swett at: Job Summary Under general supervision, provide research and diagnostic support as part of a statewide program to address disease management challenges in vegetable and field crops in California. Coordinate undergraduate teams in diagnostic sample processing including aseptic fungal and bacterial tissue isolations and fungal and bacterial subculturing, oversee media preparation, supplies and purchases for the diagnostic lab. Provide as-needed support to molecular diagnostics team, including DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Diagnose diseases submitted by growers and conduct pathogen soil tests for samples submitted by growers. Conduct research to improve diagnostic and soil detection tools. Co-manage diagnostics and culture collection databases. Train and manage undergraduate research assistants. This short-term position has potential to convert to a longer-term appointment. Position Information Apply by Date March 21st 2024 Salary Range $30.89/hr. - $49.67/hr. Appointment Type Limited Number of Positions 1 Percentage of Time Full-Time, 100% Shift Hours Manager will advise Location Davis, CA. Union Representation Yes - RX Benefits Eligible Yes PHYSICAL DEMANDS Perform repetitive and physically demanding tasks, working on feet for long hours. Work in a greenhouse in the summer under variable uncomfortable conditions including heat and humidity. Lift heavy items (>25lbs). Some of the crops emphasized in this program such as tomatoes and industrial hemp can elicit an allergic reaction. WORK ENVIRONMENT UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space. Work in a greenhouse in the summer under variable uncomfortable conditions including heat and humidity. Although not a routine part of this position, must be able and willing to occasionally work outside under hot and dry, windy or cold field conditions, in order to assist other lab members in field projects. QUALIFICATIONS Required: Additional Minimum License/Certification Valid driver license to operate University vehicle Minimum Education/Experience BS degree in plant science, microbiology, global disease biology or related field; or equivalent experience/training. Experience with aseptic technique Experience with word processing and Excel Preferred: Preferred Education/Experience 1 or more years post-baccalaureate experience in diagnostics or research in plant or microbiology related fields or other relevant experience/training.; or MS degree in plant science, microbiology, plant pathology or related field Experience with plant diseases / plant pathogens Experience in plant propagation and greenhouse trial maintenance SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Background Check This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging At UC Davis, we're solving life's most urgent challenges to bring a fuller, healthier, and more resilient world within reach. We grow from every challenge we take on and we don't just maintain - we improve. We recognize that creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant organization means understanding and valuing both our individual differences and our common ground. The most comprehensive solutions come from the most diverse minds, and you belong here. As you consider joining UC Davis, please explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education, and our latest efforts to outgrow the expected. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. 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 categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.