Staff Research Associate (SRA 2 NEX)

Under general supervision of the section faculty supervisor, perform the daily functions of a high throughput diagnostic laboratory utilizing microbiology protocols following National Mastitis Council guidelines. Assist with optimization and problem solving of nucleic acid-based detection of mastitis pathogens using real time PCR and Standard PCR technology, including processing samples for extraction of DNA and RNA from clinical and research samples. Identification of bacterial pathogens by MALDI TOF technology. Troubleshoot and maintain documentation records in accordance with standard operating procedures. Oversee teaching of the high school internship program along with teaching of veterinary students and others. Order and maintain equipment, reagents and supplies. Participate in validation studies to ensure system wide performance of assays. Ensure accurate and reproducible assay performance and reporting. Perform literature searches and utilize various reference materials to solve procedural and reference issues. Assist with statistical analysis of projects. Collaborate with others in various research studies which include those based in the Milk Quality Lab.

Apply By Date March 26, 2025 at 11:59pm

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Animal Science, or closely related fields or equivalent combination of education and experience in a related field.
• Advanced, recent experience with molecular diagnostic testing methods and use of associated automated equipment (e.g. for PCR, electrophoresis, nucleic acid sequence analysis, DNA and RNA extraction and purification), in a diagnostic laboratory.
• Experience on complex quality control and quality assurance methods in a diagnostic laboratory including maintenance of accurate inventory and quality control records for biological media and preparing nucleic acids or associated reagents to meet strict quality control standards.
• Ability to work independently on multiple projects and accept directions when given.
• Flexibility to quickly adapt to changing technology, schedules, and work environment. Excellent communications skill, and skills to work with multiple disciplines in a diagnostic lab.
• Knowledge and skills to implement, critically evaluate performance, quality control and resolve technical problems related to molecular diagnostic and ELISA methods.
• Knowledge and skills to use methods of containment, decontamination and disposal of infectious and biohazardous materials.
• Knowledge and skills to comprehend and follow detailed technical protocols, published procedures and methods and equipment operations manuals and maintain neat and accurate laboratory records and logbooks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a molecular oriented, technical position in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory with large sample numbers and high throughput testing.
• Experience with MALDI TOF or the principles of Mass Spectrometry
• Experience developing and implementing Quality Assurance programs in a diagnostic environment.
• Knowledge and experience to instruct, technically train, and provide consultation to technical and professional personnel.
• Knowledge in the field of veterinary infectious diseases.

Key Responsibilities

• 50% - Microbiology Procedures
• 30% - MALDI TOF and Molecular Procedures
• 10% - Teaching, training, and Support
• 10% - Research Collaboration and Support

Department Overview

The VMTRC is an integral part of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and is a leading educational and research organization for dairy production medicine and herd health. The location is in Tulare County with operations and clinical activities extending into the surrounding counties. This outreach provides the school with access to an abundant number of large commercial livestock operations featuring large herd sizes as well as milk and beef processing facilities. The VMTRC consists of 77,000 square feet of existing laboratory, classroom, office & clinical space, agricultural structures, and animal facilities. The Milk Quality Laboratory (MQL) is one of the core laboratories in this facility and has a threefold mission of teaching, research, and service.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $28.88/hr. - $46.46/hr.
• Salary Frequency: Bi-Weekly
• UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
• UC Job Code: 009617
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100% - Fixed
• Shift (Work Schedule): Monday-Friday; 8:00am-5:00pm
• Location: Tulare, CA.
• Union Representation: RX-Research Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

* High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
* UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
* Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
* Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
* WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
* On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
* Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
* Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
* Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
* UC Davis cares about building a community, which is why we provide resources to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion as well as Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to support our staff

Physical Demands

• Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

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.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

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

Because we want you to be seen, our recruiting process at UC Davis fosters authenticity, diversity, and inclusion. Studies have shown that some people may not apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Each unique role at UC Davis has a set of requirements and you could be perfect for this role, or you could be perfect for the next role! Don't meet all the requirements? We still encourage you to apply! #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks

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