Open Positions | UC Davis Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology

Junior Specialist - Hartigan - O'Connor Lab

Position Overview

Salary Range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000 at Step 1 or $58,600 at Step 2.

Application Window

Open Date: November 10, 2025

Next Review Date: Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final Date: Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. (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 Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of California, Davis invites applications for Two qualified Junior Specialists to work 100 % time under the direction of Professor Dennis Hartigan-O'Connor.

70% of the duties are Research. This position will be involved in interdisciplinary studies focusing on questions in viral pathogenesis and vaccines against viruses. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, research in molecular aspects of HIV/SIV pathogenesis, participation in performing molecular techniques such as RNA/DNA extraction, Real Time PCR Assays, performing histology and immunochemistry, providing assistance in tissue processing, participation in animal studies under supervision, evaluation of T cell-binding fusion proteins by flow cytometry, immunochemistry and imaging and cell cultures. The candidate will participate in performing or assisting in experiments to generate data and perform data analysis, and will receive training by post-doctoral fellows, senior researchers, and the principal investigator in order to participate in the design, collection, and interpretation of data by looking at the data gathered from the experiment that has produced the data and evaluate the information in order to consult with the PI and senior researchers.

20% of the duties involve laboratory maintenance and regulatory compliance include assisting senior researchers in the preparation of BUA and animal use protocols, maintenance of lab safety protocols, preparation of bacterial cell culture plates, management of specimen inventory, data input and storage, and maintaining an inventory of supplies and placing requests for orders to the business office. The candidate will be expected to attend lab meetings and when appropriate, will present data to their laboratory peers and will contribute to scholarly articles by providing their research findings, data, and write-ups on the work performed and may participate in writing manuscript portions in relation to their research findings.

Professional Competence 5%:
The candidate will review scholarly literature to improve or learn about methods for the project that are needed for ongoing projects and will participate in local conferences and joint lab meetings.

Public Service 5%:
The candidate will also provide University/public service by providing mentor ship of undergraduate students, guiding them in laboratory safety and training in work and data analysis.

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic Qualifications (required at time of application)

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Immunology or a related field with prior laboratory experience in molecular techniques.

Preferred Qualifications (other preferred, but not required, qualifications for the position)
Coursework and/or experience to perform molecular biology techniques. Computer skills pertaining to scientific data entry and usage. Experience in developing or adapting experimental tools and assays. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal, communication, and decision-making skills; as well as the ability to work well independently and as part of a team and will exhibit a professional approach to work and attention to detail. Experience with molecular cloning and DNA sequencing is preferred.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Document Requirements

Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter
Statement of Research (Optional)
Statement of Teaching (Optional)
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