LAB AST 3 (Lab Assistant)

The Population Health and Reproduction’s mission is to research the interface between production agriculture and food protection, identify real-world solutions to food safety challenges in these systems, and communicate new knowledge through outreach and education.

Under general supervision of the PI, work on research projects of food safety, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and epidemiology of foodborne pathogens (Salmonella spp., E. coli, Campylobacter spp., Enterococcus spp., Vibrio spp., Aeromonas, Listeria spp., STEC, etc.) transmitted through food (meat and seafood, etc.) and environmental samples (e.g. manure). Routinely process samples and isolate and confirm bacteria from samples using standard culture and molecular methods, extract DNA from bacteria and prepare libraries for whole genome sequencing (WGS), perform antimicrobial susceptibility tests (AST), and manage and submit data using standard protocols.

Position Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Lifting Requirements: Up to 50 Pounds (Medium) - Occasionally

WORK ENVIRONMENT

·       Valid CA Driver’s License

·       The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

·       Experiences with media preparations and sterile techniques.

·       Experience of collecting and processing food and environmental samples.

·       Experience and skills of bacteriological techniques including but not limited to enrichment, culture, and biochemical tests of E. coli, Enterococcus, Campylobacter, Salmonella, STEC, Vibrio, Aeromonas, lactose fermenters, etc.

·       Experience and skills of molecular techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, electrophoresis, and DNA library preparation and QC.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

·       Abilities to follow standard protocols.

·       Abilities to handle multiple tasks and meet timelines.

·       Abilities to work under supervision, independently, and with team members in a congenial manner.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

·       Skills of efficient communications.

·       Utilize critical thinking skills to troubleshoot problems and propose solutions.

·       Abilities to train students, visitors, and coworkers.

·       Skills of meticulous and precise.

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, Davis 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 University of California’s Affirmative Action Policy please visit:  https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20.    

For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination .