2025 Job Opening for Undergraduate Student at the Safford Lab (STDT 3 Lab Research Assistant)

Dr. Hugh Safford’s lab at UC Davis is seeking to hire an undergraduate student to conduct laboratory work on a project involving vegetation, fuels, biomass, and prescribed fire monitoring. The project utilizes plot sampling, destructive biomass sampling, and Terrestrial Lidar Systems (TLS).

This position supports the project "Scaling Up Science-Based Vegetation Treatments for a Wildfire-Resilient California" a collaboration between UC San Diego, CAL FIRE, UC Davis, UC Berkeley, and USF.

The hired individual will perform laboratory work to classify forest fuels and determine moisture content.

JOB TITLE

Laboratory technician (STDT 3 - $16.75/hr)

EXPECTED EMPLOYMENT PERIOD AND START DATE

15% FTE (6 hrs./week - 2h by day Monday, Wednesday and Friday) starting around June 2nd until September 5th (Potential for short-term extension)

REQUIREMENTS

• Must be a UD Davis undergraduate student in Environmental Science, Ecology, Forestry, Botany, Range Science, or a closely related field
• Must be available to work in person at UC Davis during designated laboratory hours
• Commitment to accuracy, safety, and responsible research conduct

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

• Laboratory Skills: Ability to handle and classify forest fuel samples, use ovens and scales for biomass measurement, and follow standard laboratory data safety and quality procedures.
• Natural Science Knowledge: Familiarity with forest fuel types is a plus.
• Attention to Detail and Organization: A highly organized individual with strong observation and documentation skills to ensure accuracy, consistency, and data quality.
• Teamwork and Communication: Ability to follow instructions from supervisors and communicate effectively with team members in a collaborative research environment.
• Time Management: Ability to work independently and efficiently to meet project deadlines.

COURSE COMPLETION

No requirements

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for basic data entry and analysis
• Ability to manage digital files, use shared drives, and perform data backups
• Knowledge of Arena Open Foris is a plus
• Familiarity with data quality control techniques is a plus

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

• Previous laboratory experience
• Course experience or volunteer experience that includes field sampling, plant identification, or laboratory work
• Experience working with ecological or biological datasets
• Participation in research projects or internships in environmental sciences is a plus

TO APPLY

Applications must be submitted by April 25th and are processed through the https://ucdavis.joinhandshake.com/ (listing number: #9843407).