Research Technician

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individuals to be involved in interdisciplinary studies focusing on questions in the field of Eco-physiology; relating to aquatic animals’ thermal performance, swimming performance, and behavior near engineered structures. This person may also be involved aquaculture studies with native fish to the Sacramento/San Joaquin Watersheds.
The position requires the candidate to conduct experiments with fishes, including their environmental tolerances, preferences, and behavior. This may include laboratory-based experimental research and/or field based observational research utilizing telemetry technologies. Applicant will preferably have experience with CA native anadromous fishes, specifically salmonids, smelt, or sturgeons. This position will be involved in research aimed at improving our understanding of the ecology of native fishes with direct application to the conservation of these imperiled species.

General responsibilities include the care of sensitive fish species, construction/maintenance of experimental systems, and performance of high-quality research in a laboratory or field setting. Working outdoors in various weather conditions; working in Quonset Hut-type laboratories where indoor temperatures can exceed outdoor temperatures; working evenings or weekends to fulfill experimental or test fish maintenance requirements, as well a working during normal working hours in temperature-controlled office and laboratories. Must be able to move coolers filled with water and fish (up to 50 lbs.); must be able to withstand the weather and temperature related working conditions as previously described with possible work as a deckhand on a university boat. Responsibilities may also include maintaining acoustic telemetry equipment in the field/lab, assisting during acoustic transmitter implantation, and assisting in quality control of datasets. A successful applicant will be required to communicate with funding agencies, assist in writing technical reports, and contribute to the preparation of journal articles. They will attend laboratory and sub-team meetings, review journal articles, engage in discussions on research and the interpretation of research results, and have the possibility of presenting research findings at technical meetings and professional societies.

The ideal candidate will have strong problem-solving, interpersonal, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team. They will also have demonstrated the attention to detail required to successfully collect, organize and store data.

For more refer to the online posting link: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF06531

JUNIOR SPECIALIST:
• A Bachelor degree in fisheries sciences, biology, ecology, conservation, physiology, behavior, or similar degree in a discipline relevant or related to the research conducted in the unit hiring the appointee, or experience demonstrating expertise in the relevant research methods by the time of appointment.

ASSISTANT SPECIALIST:
• A Master’s degree in fisheries sciences, biology, ecology, conservation, physiology, behavior, or similar degree in a discipline relevant or related to the research conducted in the unit hiring the appointee, or possession of a baccalaureate degree plus three or more years of research experience, or five or more years of experience demonstrating expertise in the relevant research methods by the time of appointment.

• Ability to lift and maneuver 30 pounds throughout the day.
• Experience in field or laboratory research.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint or other appropriate computer programs to organize, summarize and analyze data.
• Proficiency in both written and verbal English.
• Good oral and written skills to communicate data summary to staff and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to think critically and troubleshoot problems.
• Ability to read and explain chemical safety data sheets (SDS) and knowledge of laboratory safety and proper use and handling of potentially hazardous chemicals.
• Proficient in the use of basic hand tools.
• Provide own, reliable, transportation to and from work site; Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Commitment to a safe, equitable, and inclusive work environment.

• Experience handling native CA sturgeon, smelt, and salmonids
• Experience working independently and as a team, and in seeking more tasks as work load lessens
• Experience with aquaculture plumbing and/or construction
• Experience with acoustic telemetry technologies (Vemco, JSATS, etc.)
• Experience with standard fisheries data collection (e.g. fish identification, length/weight measurement) and experience handling and safely transporting fish
• Knowledge of GPS equipment, GIS software, and with R or other statistical software
• Experience working on boats in rivers/streams, lakes, or ocean
• Has taken motorboat operation certification course (MOCC or equivalent)
• Has a working knowledge of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Watershed