Junior Specialist for Immature Gut Biology Group (Pediatrics/Neonatal Gastrointestinal Physiolo[...]

Position Overview Salary range: $55,000 annually at Step 1; $58,600 annually at Step 2. Review timeline: 5/18/2026-5/29/2026 Application Window Open date: May 15, 2026 Next review date: June 1, 2026 at 11:59pm PST Final date: December 31, 2026 at 11:59pm PST Position Description The Department of Pediatrics at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine is recruiting for one full‑time Junior Specialist in neonatal gastrointestinal physiology and immunology. The Junior Specialist will work closely with the Principal Investigator and assist with data collection, quality control, literature reviews, and data analysis under the supervision of Dr. Geoanna Bautista. Responsibilities I. Research (80% effort): Collaborate with research personnel in neonatal gastrointestinal physiology, mechanobiology, and ion channel signaling. Plan and execute research projects involving wire myography, live calcium imaging, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and other assays in neonatal intestinal tissue and smooth muscle preparations. Perform ex vivo wire myography, live calcium imaging experiments, and immunofluorescence/immunohistochemistry staining of tissue sections and cells. Handle live neonatal and adult mice for procedures, injections, genotyping, and necropsies. Perform molecular and biochemical assays such as western blots, RNA/protein extraction, and PCR/RT‑PCR. Maintain datasets, records, laboratory equipment, SOPs, and assist with manuscript preparation and grant preparation. Create figures and graphics for publications and review journal manuscripts relevant to the lab’s research. II. Professional Competence (10% effort): Disseminate research findings at conferences and departmental seminars. Engage in literature reviews, continuing education, and training aligned with the lab’s priorities. III. University and Public Service (10% effort): Mentor undergraduate research assistants, graduate students, and medical students. Participate in lab‑related committee service for safety, animal care, and facilities management. Qualifications Basic qualifications (required at time of application): Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent) in Biological Sciences, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Immunology, Neuroscience, or a related field. Ability to work independently, take initiative, and make critical decisions. Strong organizational and time‑management skills. Hands‑on research experience with wire myography and/or isometric force measurement of smooth muscle contractility. Experience with immunofluorescence staining and confocal or multiphoton microscopy for tissue and/or cell imaging. Documented experience performing live calcium imaging using fluorescent calcium indicators (Fluo‑4, Fura‑2, GCaMP) on ex vivo tissue or isolated cells. Experience working with live rodents, including handling, injections (IP, oral gavage), and tissue harvest. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Additional qualifications (required at time of start): Ability to travel regularly between UC Davis Health (Sacramento campus) and UC Davis main campus (Tupper Hall, Davis). Preferred qualifications (not required): Experience with neonatal, fetal, or perinatal rodent models. Knowledge of gastrointestinal physiology, enteric neuroscience, gut mechanobiology, or mucosal immunology. Experience with primary cell isolation, enteric smooth muscle dissociation, or intestinal organoid culture. Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (western blot, PCR/RT‑PCR, RNA/protein extraction). Experience with quantitative image analysis software (ImageJ/Fiji, Imaris, MetaMorph). Prior experience with mechanosensitive ion channels (Piezo1, Piezo2) or calcium signaling in smooth muscle. Proficiency in multicolor flow cytometry, including panel design, gating strategy, and data analysis using FlowJo or equivalent. Application Requirements Required documents: Curriculum Vitae (most recent) Authorization to Release Information (required for academic recruitment) Cover Letter (optional) Statement of Research (optional) Statement of Teaching (optional) Reference requirements: 3 letters of reference required. EEO & Legal Statements The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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 status under state or federal law. 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 specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. UC Davis is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Job Location Sacramento, CA and Davis, CA #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California - Davis