University of California, Davis
White Abalone Health and Culture Lead (SRA 2 NEX)
University of California, Davis, Davis, California, us, 95617
White Abalone Health and Culture Lead (SRA 2 NEX)
Job Summary:
This position will have research duties under the supervision of UC Davis Academic Administrator Dr. Frederick, director of the White Abalone Captive Breeding Program, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife Shellfish Health Laboratory’s Dr. Burge. The Staff Research Associate II will develop and conduct basic research on abalone physiology, culturing, and health. They will also serve as the lead for coordinating the health monitoring of white abalone at BML and 10‑12 partner institutions. The white abalone is an ESA‑listed endangered species that was overfished in the 20th century and is now on the brink of extinction. Outplanting of captive bred animals is the essential method of saving the species. The goal of this position is to contribute to the research that enables successful captive rearing and health maintenance of endangered white abalone as part of recovery efforts for the species.
Apply By Date:
November 20, 2025
Minimum Qualifications
Experience with animal care, laboratory equipment maintenance, marine aquaculture, and careful laboratory skills and attention to detail.
Experience interpreting, communicating, and applying principles, policies and procedures governing research.
Experience collecting, analyzing, summarizing, and managing data.
Experience with various software programs for data management, image analysis, and reporting (e.g., Excel, graphing procedures, statistical analysis, ImageJ, PowerPoint, R).
Academic background in animal science, science research, or applied technical training in animal laboratory science, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional technical experience.
Planning, time management, and organizational skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science, Ecology, Aquaculture, or a related discipline.
Experience spawning and culturing abalone.
Experience culturing algae, including diatoms or other microalgae.
Experience with qPCR, DNA extractions, and shellfish health research.
Experience working in a group or team, and/or experience in a laboratory or animal care facility.
Experience working with state and/or federal permits.
Experience preparing reports and delivering presentations.
Experience conducting independent research.
Experience in or on the water (e.g., on small boats and/or with freediving or SCUBA).
Key Responsibilities
60% – Laboratory Research
20% – Data Collection, Analysis, and Presentation
15% – General Lab Support
5% – Engagement and Public Service
Department Overview Bodega Marine Laboratory (BML) is an Organized Research Unit (ORU) of the University of California, Davis. Located in Bodega Bay, BML and its surrounding 362‑acre Reserve provide research and instructional facilities for resident and campus‑based faculty, researchers, and students. Primary research emphasis is on oceanographic influences on marine population; coastal atmospheric chemistry; marine ecology and impacts of non‑native species; responses of marine organisms to environmental stress; fish ecology, conservation, and restoration; and coastal terrestrial ecology.
Position Information
Salary or Pay Range: $30.32 – $48.78 /hour
Salary Frequency: Bi‑Weekly
Salary Grade: 108
UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
Number of Positions: 1
Appointment Type: Career
Percentage of Time: 100%
Shift (Work Schedule): M‑F 8‑5
Location: Bodega Bay, CA
Union Representation: Yes – RX
Benefits Eligible: Yes
This position is 100% on‑site
Benefits
High‑quality and low‑cost medical plans.
UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums.
Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave.
Paid Holidays annually.
Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time.
Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program.
Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities.
WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources.
On‑site Employee Assistance Program including free mental health services.
Supplemental insurance offered (e.g., additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage).
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) qualified employer & student loan repayment assistance program for qualified roles.
Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans.
Physical Demands
Standing – 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 Demands
Chemicals, 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 Demands
Sustained 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 – Frequent 3 to 6 hours
Customer/Patient contact – Continuous 6 to 8+ hours
Multiple concurrent tasks – Occasional up to 3 hours
Work Environment UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, smokeless tobacco products, and unregulated nicotine products are strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors. Work may include occasional evenings, nights, weekends, holidays with overtime on short notice to meet operational needs. Work outside occasionally. Required to lift 50 lbs, climb step stools and ladders, work in cramped spaces with wet, uneven flooring, and sit and work for long periods at a computer.
Special Requirements
Employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s), drug screening, medical evaluation clearance, and functional capacity assessment.
Misconduct 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, any allegations, or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct, or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging At 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.
Equality and Non‑Discrimination Statement 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.
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This position will have research duties under the supervision of UC Davis Academic Administrator Dr. Frederick, director of the White Abalone Captive Breeding Program, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife Shellfish Health Laboratory’s Dr. Burge. The Staff Research Associate II will develop and conduct basic research on abalone physiology, culturing, and health. They will also serve as the lead for coordinating the health monitoring of white abalone at BML and 10‑12 partner institutions. The white abalone is an ESA‑listed endangered species that was overfished in the 20th century and is now on the brink of extinction. Outplanting of captive bred animals is the essential method of saving the species. The goal of this position is to contribute to the research that enables successful captive rearing and health maintenance of endangered white abalone as part of recovery efforts for the species.
Apply By Date:
November 20, 2025
Minimum Qualifications
Experience with animal care, laboratory equipment maintenance, marine aquaculture, and careful laboratory skills and attention to detail.
Experience interpreting, communicating, and applying principles, policies and procedures governing research.
Experience collecting, analyzing, summarizing, and managing data.
Experience with various software programs for data management, image analysis, and reporting (e.g., Excel, graphing procedures, statistical analysis, ImageJ, PowerPoint, R).
Academic background in animal science, science research, or applied technical training in animal laboratory science, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional technical experience.
Planning, time management, and organizational skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science, Ecology, Aquaculture, or a related discipline.
Experience spawning and culturing abalone.
Experience culturing algae, including diatoms or other microalgae.
Experience with qPCR, DNA extractions, and shellfish health research.
Experience working in a group or team, and/or experience in a laboratory or animal care facility.
Experience working with state and/or federal permits.
Experience preparing reports and delivering presentations.
Experience conducting independent research.
Experience in or on the water (e.g., on small boats and/or with freediving or SCUBA).
Key Responsibilities
60% – Laboratory Research
20% – Data Collection, Analysis, and Presentation
15% – General Lab Support
5% – Engagement and Public Service
Department Overview Bodega Marine Laboratory (BML) is an Organized Research Unit (ORU) of the University of California, Davis. Located in Bodega Bay, BML and its surrounding 362‑acre Reserve provide research and instructional facilities for resident and campus‑based faculty, researchers, and students. Primary research emphasis is on oceanographic influences on marine population; coastal atmospheric chemistry; marine ecology and impacts of non‑native species; responses of marine organisms to environmental stress; fish ecology, conservation, and restoration; and coastal terrestrial ecology.
Position Information
Salary or Pay Range: $30.32 – $48.78 /hour
Salary Frequency: Bi‑Weekly
Salary Grade: 108
UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
Number of Positions: 1
Appointment Type: Career
Percentage of Time: 100%
Shift (Work Schedule): M‑F 8‑5
Location: Bodega Bay, CA
Union Representation: Yes – RX
Benefits Eligible: Yes
This position is 100% on‑site
Benefits
High‑quality and low‑cost medical plans.
UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums.
Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave.
Paid Holidays annually.
Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time.
Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program.
Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities.
WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources.
On‑site Employee Assistance Program including free mental health services.
Supplemental insurance offered (e.g., additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage).
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) qualified employer & student loan repayment assistance program for qualified roles.
Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans.
Physical Demands
Standing – 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 Demands
Chemicals, 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 Demands
Sustained 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 – Frequent 3 to 6 hours
Customer/Patient contact – Continuous 6 to 8+ hours
Multiple concurrent tasks – Occasional up to 3 hours
Work Environment UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, smokeless tobacco products, and unregulated nicotine products are strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors. Work may include occasional evenings, nights, weekends, holidays with overtime on short notice to meet operational needs. Work outside occasionally. Required to lift 50 lbs, climb step stools and ladders, work in cramped spaces with wet, uneven flooring, and sit and work for long periods at a computer.
Special Requirements
Employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s), drug screening, medical evaluation clearance, and functional capacity assessment.
Misconduct 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, any allegations, or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct, or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging At 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.
Equality and Non‑Discrimination Statement 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.
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