Junior Specialist-GVL Lab

The Genomic Variation Laboratory (GVL) in the Department of Animal Science seeks a Junior Specialist with expertise in field‑deployable genetic testing, particularly CRISPR‑based assays. The candidate will assist staff scientists and graduate students in experiments that support improving the field deployability of SHERLOCK genetic tests developed in the GVL. These include testing various approaches to reaction lyophilization and characterizing the sensitivity of SHERLOCK assays on the 3D‑printed DIYNAFLUOR fluorescence reading platform. The candidate will also assist a graduate student in developing an inexpensive, 3D‑printed heat block with a wide temperature range (20-95C) that will enable performing all steps of a SHERLOCK reaction outside of a laboratory environment. Other duties will include DNA extraction and microfluidic SNP genotyping to support the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Early Delta Smelt Monitoring program, microsatellite genotyping of Kootenai River white sturgeon, preparation of eDNA metabarcoding libraries, and occasional fieldwork assisting students or staff in collecting environmental or biological samples. The candidate will also participate in preparation of conference presentations, reports, and manuscripts stemming from these projects. The Junior Specialist will primarily work in the GVL lab space in Meyer Hall and will be expected to perform SHERLOCK reaction lyophilization, run SHERLOCK assays on various instruments, extract DNA or RNA from multiple sample types for SHERLOCK testing or genotyping (SNP or microsatellite), perform PCR and qPCR, and prepare and submit eDNA metabarcoding libraries for sequencing at the UC Davis DNA Technologies and Expression Analysis Core. The candidate will be actively involved in the design and testing of portable heat block prototypes for field‑deployable SHERLOCK testing; therefore prior experience with CAD is preferred. The candidate will also perform some data analysis, with guidance from graduate students and staff. The candidate will occasionally work in the field to support graduate student and staff scientist research. These activities could include water sampling for eDNA detection or capture of songbirds for tissue sampling. The candidate will also work alongside the GVL lab manager to order supplies, as needed, curate incoming samples, and maintain the lab’s chemical inventory. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required. The candidate will attend and contribute to the weekly GVL lab meeting when it does not conflict with mandatory fieldwork days. The Junior Specialist will have the opportunity to mentor undergraduate students interested in learning molecular techniques. They may also elect to participate in the GVL Picnic Day exhibit. The candidate may also be asked to train visiting scholars, graduate students, staff, volunteers, and collaborators in laboratory procedures. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California