Junior Specialist-Toprani Lab

Position overview Salary range: Exempt: A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000 at Step 1 or $58,600 at Step 2. Non- Exempt: A reasonable estimate for this position is $26.35/hr at Step 1 or $28.07/hr at Step 2. Application Window Open date: May 21, 2026 Most recent review date: Saturday, Jun 6, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled. Final date: Friday, May 21, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled. Position description The Department of Neurology at the University of California, Davis, invites applications for a Junior Specialist position under the guidance of Dr. Sheela Toprani. This role focuses on advancing research in neurophysiology with a specific emphasis on epilepsy. Nature and Purpose The Junior Specialist will provide technical expertise in the planning and execution of research projects. The role involves analyzing complex biological data to advance our understanding of neurological conditions, specifically epilepsy. This position encourages collaboration with principal investigators to contribute to research proposals and secure funding. The Junior Specialist will be responsible for lab data and codebase organization, management, and pipeline development. This position will also provide hands‑on support in analysis for iEEG projects, which will include data pre‑processing, event extraction, time‑frequency analysis, event related potential analysis, phase‑locking analysis and network coherence analysis. Familiarity with various computer environments (Windows, Mac OSX), coding skills (Matlab, R, Python), and codebase repositories (GitHub) is essential. Previous work with electrophysiological data is preferred. The selected candidate will be expected to contribute to academic publications published in peer‑reviewed journals, participate in lab meetings and attend relevant talks/meetings. The ideal candidate should possess strong communication and decision‑making skills, have a strong interest in neuroscience, and must be able to work well independently and as part of a team. Major Responsibilities and Areas of Expertise Research and Analysis (85% Effort) Conduct comprehensive data analysis, focusing on EEG and neuroimaging data, to investigate brain function and network dynamics in epilepsy. Utilize advanced statistical and computational models, applying programming skills in Python, MATLAB, and R. Prepare and publish research findings in peer‑reviewed journals, ensuring meaningful contributions to the field. Disseminate research outcomes through presentations at national and international conferences, workshops, and symposia in collaboration with principal investigators. Develop and maintain a codebase that highlights new analytical capabilities introduced during the research. Take initiative and engage in critical problem‑solving with enthusiasm for advancing neurophysiological research. Professional Competence and Activity (10% Effort) Participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations. The candidate may have the opportunity to review research proposals, journal manuscripts, and publications related to the area of expertise. University and Public Service (5% Effort) Participate in committee activities within the department, college, campus, and other university entities, as appropriate. Qualifications Basic qualifications (required at time of application) Experience in data analysis and computational modeling related to biological or neurological research. Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, including related data analysis toolboxes such as FieldTrip, and codebase management using GitHub. Experience organizing and managing data processing pipelines. Experience with large data signal processing. Great communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently, take initiative, critical problem‑solving, and enthusiasm. Knowledgeable about issues with computer software and hardware, and experience troubleshooting. Additional qualifications (required at time of start) Bachelor's degree with a major in Neurology, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science or a related field. This is an entry level position reserved for graduates with a Bachelor's degree and less than 3 years experience. Preferred qualifications (other preferred, but not required, qualifications for the position) Familiarity with EEG data analysis 1-2 years' experience in a lab or industry setting Experience with web design and social media Prior work with electrophysiological datasets Familiarity with command line scripting and Linux and Windows operating systems. General programming or software development experience. Understanding of Electroencephalography (EEG) and/or intracranial EEG (iEEG) research. Possess skill set with patient MRIs including an understanding of MRI neuroanatomy. Application Requirements Document requirements Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V. Authorization to Release Information Form - This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form. Reference requirements 3-5 required (contact information only) About UC Davis As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer. UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties APM - 035: Affir... To implement this process, UC Davis requires all applicants for any open search to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled, "Authorization to Release Information" into UC RECRUIT as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration. UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco‑free campus. 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 as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub‑contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Our excellence in research, teaching, and service are embodied by members of our academic community who share our commitment to these values. A variety of resources and programs are available to academics, staff, and students that reflect the core values reflected in our strategic plan: "To Boldly Go," our Principles of Community, the Office of Academic Affairs' Mission Statement, and the UC Board of Regents Policy 4400. UC Davis is also a national leader in inclusive practice. There are numerous links available on the About Us webpage where you can learn more about our administration, campus rankings, locations, campus safety, sustainability, visiting UC Davis and UC Davis Health. The university is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for campus sustainability practices by the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. UC Davis is focused on achieving net‑zero greenhouse gas emissions and repeatedly shown its commitment to preserving a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come. The University of California and UC Davis are committed to offering a wide variety of benefits for employees. The University of California Employee benefits and UC Davis New Employee benefits webpages have additional information. As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. Job location Davis, CA #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California - Davis