DNA Isolation Specialist (LAB AST 2)

Under general supervision, as a member of the sample receiving/prep group, enter client data and prepare samples for parentage verification, coat color and disease diagnostic testing. Entry level position responsible for all aspects of sample documentation, DNA isolation, and curation. Major functions are: 1) DNA extraction from multiple sources including but not limited to: hair roots, buccal swabs, tissue, semen, and blood, 2) distribution of samples to appropriate testing pipelines via accurate distribution of extracted templates coupled with appropriate digital documentation, and 3) enter/confirm client information in the VGL sample database, retrieve stored DNA/hair samples, and archive frozen DNA, plasma and serum samples in storage freezers. Perform reagent preparation and validation, assisting with cleaning, and maintenance of tools and equipment including DNA extraction robots.

Apply By Date August 18th 2026 by 11:59PM

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• No Minimum Education required.
• No Minimum Work Experience required.
• Ability to accurately organize, rearrange, and transfer many small items such as samples while maintaining order
• Skill to be meticulous and detail oriented and to maintain focus on the work at hand in a busy work environment.
• Ability to learn detailed, complicated procedures quickly and to follow detailed instructions or protocols with minimal supervision.
• Skills to manipulate equipment and computer terminals.
• Skill with basic lab tools and techniques (centrifuge, micropipettes, scales).
• Skill to proofread work for accuracy and completeness.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a service-oriented unit.
• Knowledge/skill of DNA extractions techniques from multiple sources including hair, buccal swabs, tissues, and plasma/serum.
• Skill to effectively prioritize tasks on a daily basis while adjusting to fluctuating sample numbers and the needs of other staff members.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively troubleshoot.
  

Key Responsibilities

• 80% - Sample Preparation for Testing
• 15% - Other Laboratory Tasks as Assigned
• 5% - Scanning, Proofing & Filing of Documents

Department Overview

Be part of an internationally recognized and accredited laboratory that provides expert DNA testing for various animal species. The Veterinary Genetics Laboratory provides animal parentage verification, identification, forensics services, genetic diagnostics, and genetic research for a broad range of domestic species as well as primates and wildlife species. We are looking for a representative to work in this non-profit laboratory that is part of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and strives to provide highly accurate DNA testing for animals while also promoting education and scientific advancement in animal genetics. **VGL is currently located on the Davis campus but will be relocating to AggieSquare on the UC Davis Sacramento campus ~ Date TBD 2027

Department Specific Job Scope

This position serves as the first step in our service pipeline, performing DNA isolation that is required before any downstream laboratory work can occur. No other testing or analysis can be completed without this function.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $27.10/hr. - $32.65/hr.
• Salary Frequency: Bi-weekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC Job Title: LAB AST 2
• UC Job Code: 009603
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm
• Location: Davis
• Union Representation: TX-Technical Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting or or .

• High quality and low-cost to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for and coverage for you and your family
• for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
• Supplemental insurance offered including , , , , accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
• , , and for eligible employees
• and Family Care discounts and resources
• to support thriving in all aspects of employee's lives
• On-site including access to free mental health services
• Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• and for eligible employees

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, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

Must be able to tolerate the sight of blood and occasional foul odors. Work in a secured animal research area. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. Ability to work in a busy