UC Davis Dept. of WFCB, Otolith Geochemistry & Fish Ecology Laboratory
Junior Specialist & Assistant Specialist
Position Description:
We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to participate in field and laboratory studies of native fishes in the San Francisco Estuary. Opportunities will generally be interdisciplinary, combining standard practices in fisheries ecology, including field surveys and fish dissections and morphometrics, along with otolith age and geochemical approaches to reconstruct fish life-histories, growth rates, and migration patterns of endangered species.
The position requires the candidate to conduct laboratory-based fish and otolith research and/or field-based observational research using surveys aboard a research vessel. The applicant will preferably have experience in fisheries ecology, working with CA native fishes and using otolith-based techniques. This position involves research aimed at improving our understanding of the ecology of native fishes to inform key policy decisions for the State of California and enhance the effectiveness of science-based management for endangered species and essential habitats.
Work will be conducted under the supervision of Dr. Levi Lewis in the Otolith Geochemistry & Fish Ecology Laboratory (OGFL, sample statement), Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology at UC Davis.
General responsibilities may include fish dissections and measurements, preparation of otoliths for age, growth and otolith laser ablation geochemistry, image analysis, geochemical analysis, field surveys to determine the distribution and abundance of fishes, and quantification of zooplankton samples. Field surveys include working outdoors in various weather conditions, including remote field areas where temperature and sun exposure levels can be high. Field sampling may include evenings and travel away from home for up to 1 week at a time, including weekends
to conduct surveys.
Laboratory and office work is generally conducted during normal working hours in temperature-controlled office and lab facilities, but can include weekends and evenings as needed. Must be able to lift equipment up to 30 lbs.; must be able to withstand the weather and temperature-related working conditions as previously described with careful attention to personal safety and avoiding weather-related illness. Must be able to travel for a week-long sampling events and work nights and weekends as needed.
Responsibilities may also include maintaining equipment in the field/lab, literature review, data collection, and assisting in data entry and quality control of datasets. A successful applicant will be required to communicate with funding agencies, help write technical and permitting reports, and contribute to the preparation of journal articles. Depending on field duties and schedule, they will attend laboratory meetings, review journal articles, engage in discussions on research and the interpretation of research results, and may have the possibility of presenting research findings at technical meetings and professional societies.
The ideal candidate will have strong problem-solving, interpersonal, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. They will also have demonstrated the attention to detail required to successfully collect, organize, and store data, as well as to communicate critical project needs, changes, or challenges to senior staff and faculty in a collaborative setting.
Required to hold valid driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.
The duties of this position are designated to the following criteria:
JUNIOR SPECIALIST
Research (90%):
The incumbent will assist in studies in consultation with the PI and other project scientists. They will provide feedback on aspects of the studies. They will help with collecting and summarizing data, may assist in data analyses, and will provide information to be used for annual and related reports. They will assist the project by writing annual permitting reports and by participating in lab discussions. They will contribute to, and provide feedback on any publications resulting from the work. They will be involved in animal use protocol reporting and compliance, as well as writing protocols.
Professional Competence (5%)
The incumbent may be able to participate in regional meetings. The incumbent will be expected to interact with and engage stakeholders and other agencies involved in wildlife management.
University and Public Service (5%)
The incumbent may assist project personnel or participate in university or other groups to improve equity and inclusion in the sciences.
ASSISTANT SPECIALIST
Research (90%):
The incumbent will help design and execute studies in consultation with the PI and other project scientists. They will provide feedback on aspects of the studies. They will help with collecting and summarizing data, may assist in data analyses, and will provide information to be used for annual and related reports. They will conducts stats and modeling. They will assist the project by writing annual permitting reports and by participating in lab discussions. They will contribute to, edit, and provide feedback on any publications resulting from the work.
Professional Competence (5%)
The incumbent will participate in regional meetings. The incumbent will be expected to interact with and engage stakeholders and other agencies involved in wildlife management.
University and Public Service (5%)
The incumbent will assist in training or mentoring of other junior scientists or project personnel or participate in university or other groups to improve equity and inclusion in the sciences.
TO APPLY: Please go to the following link: [sample statement]. Applicants should submit cover letter indicating how you meet the minimum and preferred qualifications, your most recent CV and contact information for 2-3 recent references. Documents/materials must be submitted as PDF files.
Screening of applicants is ongoing and will continue as needed. The number of positions varies each year, depending on the needs of the laboratory.
Appointments will vary in length up to a 12-month appointment with the possibility of extension contingent upon funding and performance.
QUESTIONS: Please direct questions to Jennifer Enoch via email to [email protected].
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see:
Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UCSC positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. More information is available sample statement]. UC Davis is a smoke & tobacco-free campus [sample statement].
If you need accommodation due to a disability, please contact the recruiting department.
