Recruit

The Global Change Lab in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) invites applications for the Global Change Assistant Specialist.

Under the supervision of Associate Professor Malin Pinsky, the research specialist will assist with population and historical genomics research, develop and apply bioinformatic pipelines, analyze large datasets with scientific computing, maintain and promote open science practices, help with research group administration, and assist with maintaining a collaborative and supportive research environment for all members.

In the Global Change Lab, we use population genomics and data science to study biodiversity change from genes to communities, locally and around the world. Much of our research is focused on climate change and conservation in coastal marine environments. We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment, involvement in a wide range of research projects, extensive learning and professional development, and many opportunities for co-authorship on scientific manuscripts. We value a healthy work-life balance and pursue actively inclusive and anti-racist practices.

The work environment will primarily be a population genomics lab on the beautiful Coastal Science Campus at UCSC within a short walk to the ocean and easy access to mountains and open space. The EEB department offers a diverse, exciting, and supportive environment for learning and research and is complemented by colleagues at the Institute for Marine Science, the Coastal Science and Policy Program, NOAA Fisheries, the Center for Coastal Climate Resilience, and others. Fieldwork will be infrequent but will be diverse, remote, physically challenging, and/or involve international travel. The position will also require lifting 30 pounds with or without accommodation.

The selected candidate must demonstrate excellent communication skills; the ability to solve diverse technical and organizational challenges with exceptional creativity and collaboration; exceptional organizational skills and strong ability to accomplish tasks independently; community-building skills and the ability to foster inclusion; and a commitment to open science practices.

Laboratory and field research (30%)

• Perform DNA and RNA extractions, DNA and RNA library preparations for next-generation sequencing, and other molecular ecology procedures to support research.
• Maintain contamination-free work environment for research on historical specimens.
• Assist students and other researchers in their acquisition of field and laboratory skills.

Bioinformatics and data science (30%)

• Data entry and analysis with bioinformatic and scientific computing for contribution to research papers, articles, and professional journals.
• Maintain meticulous analysis records.

Administrative (20%)

• Oversee laboratory inventories: purchase supplies, maintain inventory, and organize laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Consistently comply with laboratory safety regulations.
• Contribute to improvement and efficiency of research group operations.

Outreach and community building (20%)

• Maintain research group and related websites.
• Assist with building a collaborative and supportive research environment for all members and guests of the research group.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. UC Santa Cruz is committed to excellence through diversity and strives to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees. Inquiries regarding the University’s equal employment opportunity policies may be directed to the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064 or by phone at (831) 459-2686.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UCSC positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check (see https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify). The university sponsors employment-based visas for nonresidents who are offered academic appointments at UC Santa Cruz (see https://apo.ucsc.edu/policy/capm/102.530.html).

UCSC is a smoke & tobacco-free campus.

If you need accommodation due to a disability, please contact Disability Management Services at roberts@ucsc.edu (831) 459-4602.

UCSC is committed to addressing the spousal and partner employment needs of our candidates and employees. As part of this commitment, our institution is a member of the Northern California Higher Education Recruitment Consortium (NorCal HERC). Visit the NorCal HERC website at https://www.hercjobs.org/regions/higher-ed-careers-northern-california/ to search for open positions within a commutable distance of our institution.

The University of California offers a competitive benefits package and a number of programs to support employee work/life balance. For information about employee benefits please visit https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

VISIT UC Santa Cruz: https://www.ucsc.edu