Junior Specialist (Ori-McKenney Lab 2026)

The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of California, Davis invites applications for 1 Junior Specialist positions in molecular biology and biochemistry. POSITION DESCRIPTION: Research (90%) This position will be involved in interdisciplinary studies focusing on tau physiology and pathology, with the goal of understanding how tau functions at the molecular level and how it aggregates to cause neurodegenerative disease.

The successful candidate will maintain Drosophila stocks and perform necessary assays to induce and assess neurodegeneration, as well as analyze samples biochemically for different tau phosphorylation states using SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. In addition, the candidate is expected to review the scientific literature and, in conjunction with the Principal Investigator, formulate new hypotheses, design experiments to test those hypotheses, and conduct the resulting experiments.

The candidate will also be expected to present their work in lab and group research meetings, contribute to the preparation of figures, and assist in the writing of manuscripts for publication. Service (10%) The Junior Specialist will be expected to help train and mentor undergraduates, as well as other laboratory members.

Additional responsibilities will include contributing to the overall operation of the laboratory, maintaining a clean work environment, and ensuring compliance with all safety regulations. TO APPLY: Apply Here Applicants should submit a cover letter, a research statement describing their past research experience, skills and interests, and a curriculum vitae.

Documents/materials must be submitted as PDF files. Applicants should also provide contact information for two references. All letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. For more information about the department, please visit the website: Molecular and Cellular Biology QUESTIONS: Please direct questions to Kassandra Ori-Mc.

Kenney ( kmorimckenney@ucdavis.edu )