UC ANR: Project Scientist (Assistant)
Position description and responsibilities:
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.
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.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- 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.
Preferred Qualifications:
- 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.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to work independently and seek guidance when needed, demonstrated through academic research, professional experience, or a combination.
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills and presentation skills.
- Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed, proof of liability and property damage insurance on vehicles used is required. Must possess a valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University vehicle.
- This is not a remote position. The candidate must be available to work onsite. In accordance with UC ANR Flexible Work Guidelines flexible work agreements are available upon approval by supervisors and periodic re-evaluation.
how to apply:
To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/5231815. To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by June 6, 2024 – (open until filled)
Questions?
Recruitment Questions: Contact Mikyla Perez – email: mikperez@ucanr.edu
“Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring work authorization without need of employer sponsorship for the duration of the appointment period.”