Molecular Biologist (SRA 2 NEX)

Job SummaryUnder general supervision, responsible for molecular diagnostic testing and laboratory technical support in the Bacteriology Section including identification and characterization of bacterial, protozoal and fungal pathogens using Real Time PCR, Standard PCR, and/or DNA sequencing. Assist with optimization and use of procedures for PCR-based differentiation and identification of virulence factors. Provide specimen processing back up for classical bacteriological testing. Responsible for adherence to the CAHFS Quality Program Requirements, solving problems related to molecular diagnostic testing methods, laboratory and equipment maintenance, organizing and prioritizing workload to meet the needs of clinical testing requirements and maintaining complete records of test data and results. Perform literature searches and utilize various reference materials to solve procedural and identification problems. This is not a research position. The position is located in a diagnostic laboratory where quality control and assurance as well as meticulous work habits are essential.Apply By Date05/27/2026 by 11:59 pmQualificationsMinimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the positionB.S degree in molecular biology or a related scientific discipline with experience in molecular diagnostic testing for infectious agents.Experience working in a highly regulated diagnostic environment which adheres to ISO, AAVLD, or other laboratory accreditation standards, including expertise following complex protocols, producing neat, accurate, complete records, within in a strict quality assurance and control environment for assuring test accuracy in a diagnostic lab.Skills to operate a biosafety cabinet, fume hood, auto and manual pipettes, spectrophotometer, digital imager, ABI-7500, centrifuges, thermocyclers, and other laboratory equipment, including any accompanying software.Skills to multi-task, work under multiple deadlines, and adapt to sudden changes in workload.Knowledge to design PCR primers, maintain stocks, optimize concentrations, and perform all related calculations.Strong writing, verbal communication and computer skills to produce clear and concise test results and explanations to others, including co-workers, submitting vets, and clients Including the use of various computer applications including email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation graphics programs, library search programs, graphing and statistical analysis programs, and Laboratory Information Management programs.Preferred QualificationsExperience/background in Animal Science, and/or livestock/poultry production. Experience with appropriate handling of clinical (animal tissues and fluids) and environmental samples for diagnostic bacteriology, fungal, and/or parasitology examinations. Skills to use DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis programs NCBI, GenBank, and Geneious.Key Responsibilities60% - Clinical Diagnostics20% - Laboratory Management15% - Quality Programs and other Duties5% - DevelopmentDepartment OverviewCAHFS provides California's livestock and poultry industries, and veterinary practitioners who serve them, with a full range of diagnostic laboratory services for disease control, enhancement of health management, and protection from diseases common to animal and humans. In meeting this need, the CAHFS also serves as the backbone of California's disease warning system through its animal disease surveillance program. The system consists of four laboratories currently located in Davis, Turlock, Tulare and San Bernardino. Funding for this program is provided through a contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and through revenue generated from user fees. An additional program, the Equine Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, is funded through a contract with the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) and horse wagering monies and provides full-service drug testing and a pharmacology research and development program.POSITION INFORMATIONSalary or Pay Range: $31.23 - $50.24Salary Frequency: HourlySalary Grade: 108UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEXUC Job Code: 009617Number of Positions: 1Appointment Type: Staff: CareerPercentage of Time: 100% FixedShift (Work Schedule): Monday-Friday, 8:00am- 5:00pmLocation: Davis, CaUnion Representation: RX-Research ProfessionalsBenefits Eligible: YesThis position is 100% on-site BenefitsOutstanding 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.htmlHigh quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needsUC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your familyExtensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical LeavePaid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining AgreementPaid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining AgreementContinuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining AgreementAccess to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growthWorkLife and Wellness programs and resourcesOn-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health servicesSupplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coveragePublic Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified rolesRetirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found herePhysical DemandsStanding - 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 DemandsChemicals, 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 DemandsSustained 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 - Occasional Up to 3 Hours Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours Work EnvironmentUC 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.This is not a research position. The position is located in a diagnostic laboratory where quality control and assurance as well as meticulous working habits are essential. Per the terms and agreements of the department's contracts and grants, the position requires signing of a Confidentiality Agreement or Non-Disclosure Agreement regarding testing and client information. Due to the nature of the essential responsibilities, this position is not eligible for remote work. Ability to complete Select Agent background clearance procedures. This position is subject to UCDs vaccination program (Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, is/might subject to prophylactic vaccination for rabies), and Medical/Health Surveillance Program/Procedures/Review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. Work Schedule: Monday Friday; 8:00am- 5:00pm (Work schedule might be slightly different during the training period). Work flexible schedule/overtime as needed to complete projects and meet deadlines. Mandatory weekend and holiday rotation. Restricted/Limited vacation during peak workload periods (i.e. Outbreaks, Fiscal Close, Audits Periods, etc.)Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by positionThis 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 assessmentMisconduct 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.A Culture of Opportunity and BelongingAt UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-DiscriminationBecause we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHereTo learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks #CA-CB