Position Overview
The Project Scientist will conduct research and contribute to outreach and extension efforts to support development of scale-appropriate processing methods and value-added products for local food businesses and small-scale food entrepreneurs. Research efforts will focus on developing and improving processing and preservation technologies that are effective at control, removal or inactivation of pathogens and spoilage microorganisms in products developed from local, niche, and emerging specialty crops. These efforts will also support the development of new recipes and products that can be used by the UC Master Food Preserver Program and Cottage Food operations. This position is part of the F3 Local Initiative (f3local.org), and the Project Scientist will work as part of a team of academics and extension professionals to increase economic development opportunities for local, small-scale farms and food businesses in Fresno, Madera, and Merced Counties.
Location Headquarters: UC Davis, Department of Food Science and Technology
The Assistant Project Scientist position is a limited term appointment. The merit cycle is every two years. The performance in the position will be evaluated annually. The position will be extended based on the continued need for the position, performance and availability of funding.
Qualifications
Requirement:
Education: A minimum of a Ph.D. degree in food science, food safety, microbiology, or a closely related field is required at the time of appointment.
Additional Requirements
• Experience using microbial detection methods for foods and knowledge of microbial detection methods for microorganisms in foods and related laboratory skills.
• Understanding of food safety regulations such as Food Safety Modernization Act, HACCP, and low acid canned food regulations.
• Experience conducting hazard analysis and validation studies.
Desired Experience
• One or more industry and regulatory certifications such as the Food Safety Modernization Act Preventive Control Qualified Individual certification, Better Process Control School certificate of completion, Food Safety Modernization Act Produce Safety Rule Grower training certificate.
• Experience conducting research related to the safety of foods and product development.
• Experience in extension education, community development, or community-based partnerships.
Benefits Offered
Benefits: The University of California offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. This position is eligible for sabbatical leave privileges as per the terms of the University policy. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website at: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html
Compensation/Salary
Salary: The beginning salary will be in the Assistant Project Scientist Rank from Step 1 - $71,500 to Step 4 $82,900 annually. Step placement in this series is based on experience. For information regarding the Project Scientist non-represented series salary scales, please refer to https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2023-24/july-2023-acad-salary-scales/t37-b.pdf This is a represented position.
How to Apply
Application Instructions:
To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/5231815. To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by June 6, 2024 – (open until filled)
