Junior Specialist - NCIBT
Position overview
Non- Exempt: A reasonable estimate for this position is $26.35/hr at Step 1 or $28.07/hr at Step 2.
Application Window
Open date: December 11, 2025
Next review date: Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
The National Center for Interventional Biophotonic Technologies (NCIBT) at the University of California at Davis is recruiting for full-time Junior Specialist in Biophotonics. The role is to work alongside researchers to assemble, test, and validate imaging systems, probes and related instrumentation for benchtop, pre-clinical and clinical applications.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE
The successful candidate will be responsible for the precise assembly, testing, and validation of imaging devices and related biophotonic instrumentation for benchtop, pre-clinical and clinical applications. The role involves fine optical alignment, fiber handling and polishing, as well as the integration and troubleshooting of subassemblies and full systems. The person will also operate established systems under leadership as part of a core facility.
The incumbent will work under the supervision of Dr. Laura Marcu and the ability to work cooperatively and collegially in a diverse environment.
I. RESEARCH (90% Effort)
A. The incumbent will collaborate with other research personnel affiliated with research activities involving interventional biophotonic technologies and center-wide research. The junior specialist will perform technical/routine lab activities required to test optical and imaging devices, operate within standard operating procedures for Center labs, and further research through the Center as it relates to Interventional Biophotonics. Specific duties may include:
• Assemble, align, and test optical and imaging devices including fiber optic probes for imaging applications according to established protocols.
• Operate core facility instrumentation using lasers following standard operating procedures and safety best practices
• Assist with clinical and pre-clinical data collection using established systems
• Collaborate with researchers to develop and document experimental protocols, fabrication workflows, and test procedures.
• Collect, record, and analyze technical data, including performance metrics, mechanical tolerances, and system characterization results.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and technical documentation
• Support laboratory operations, including maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, and ensuring safety best practices and quality control procedures are followed.
• Ensure that optics / lenses / electronics are appropriately stored and maintained.
• Other duties as required.
II. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE (5% Effort)
Conference participation: The candidate may have the opportunity to attend and potentially present at relevant conferences.
Engagement in Scientific Community: Participation in professional societies and engagement with biophotonic technologies networks is encouraged to support ongoing professional development.
III. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% Effort)
The Junior Specialist may be expected to provide mentorship to undergraduate research assistants that rotate through the lab. They will be expected to participate and contribute to laboratory and group meetings, collaborative & service projects, and other activities, as applicable. Support Center-wide outreach efforts, such as public presentations that raise awareness about Center research.
For the full position description and to apply, visit https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07430
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) with a major in Biomedical Engineering, Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• This is an entry level position reserved for graduates with Bachelor’s degree and less than 2-3 years experience
• Research experience in Biomedical Engineering, Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• Experience working in a fast-paced clinical environment
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make critical decisions
• Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) with a major in Biomedical Engineering, Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• This is an entry level position reserved for graduates with Bachelor’s degree and less than 2-3 years experience
• Research experience in Biomedical Engineering, Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• Experience working in a fast-paced clinical environment
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make critical decisions
• Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
Application Requirements
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Authorization to Release Information Form - This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form.
- 3 required (contact information only)
Help contact: jvaladez@ucdavis.edu
About UC Davis
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
- “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
- UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
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To implement this process, UC Davis requires all applicants for any open search to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled, "Authorization to Release Information" into UC RECRUIT as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration.
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