Are you an expert in molecular genetics with a passion for wildlife conservation and a knack for laboratory leadership? The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking a Research Scientist Supervisor I to direct the laboratory portions of our new Parentage Based Tagging and invasive species eDNA projects.
In this role, you will supervise and direct laboratory staff in the planning and implementation of highly complex, multi-phase genetic studies that directly impact the management and sustainability of California's wild and hatchery fish stocks, and early detection monitoring of invasive species. From executing Parentage-Based Tagging (PBT) and Chinook Salmon Cohort Reconstruction to pioneering environmental DNA (eDNA) projects, your work will guide critical regulation setting processes and inform critical management decisions.
Key Responsibilities include:
Scientific Leadership & Study Direction
Provide supervision and oversight of complex studies: Plan and lead multi-phase genetic studies (PBT and Cohort Reconstruction) in coordination with external agencies and CDFW staff.
Innovate Tech & Workflows: Oversee the development and implementation of new genetic markers, sequencing methods, analytical tools, and robust databases for genetic data storage and analysis.
Expert Advisory: Serve as a primary scientific advisor to CDFW staff and fisheries managers on transgenic issues, field collection protocols, and genetics policies.
Supervision: Provide supervision, training, guidance and leadership to a team of research scientists working in the CDFW Genetics Research Laboratory.
Laboratory Management & Mentorship
Optimize Operations: Oversee laboratory configurations, workflows, schedules, resource allocations, and equipment/service contracts.
Train & Mentor: Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and professional development support to laboratory staff to ensure high-quality scientific output.
Safety & Quality Control: Establish and enforce stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance (QA/QC) processes, and laboratory safety protocols.
Fieldwork, Analysis, & Research
Stock Assessment: Analyze wild/hatchery fish stocks and aquatic invasive species to assess presence, genetic stock identification, and compliance with management plans.
Publish & Present: Maintain an active understanding of current scientific literature, publish research results in peer-reviewed journals, and present findings at technical meetings.
Link to Class Title Exam: Research Scientist Supervisor I/Exam Bulletin
This position is posted in the following counties: Yolo/Sacramento counties. Please apply to each county in which you are interested in working.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.
-This is an office centric position. Incumbent must possess the ability to complete in person laboratory and office tasks that require sitting and standing for long periods of time.
-Primary work location will be in a laboratory environment with fluorescent lighting, loud equipment and hazardous chemicals.
-Required to wear laboratory safety equipment and protective coverings for long periods of time including lab coats, aprons, gloves, ear and eye protection, masks, face shields, and footwear.
-Willingness to work unusual hours including early mornings, late nights, and weekends depending on seasonal workload. Overnight or multi-night travel may be necessary to reach fish hatcheries, field sites, and meeting locations.
-Ability to walk over uneven and possibly steep or wet terrain at field and hatchery locations with wet slippery aquatic environments with extremes of heat and cold may be required.
-Possession of a valid state Driver’s License is required.
-Drive state owned vehicles (up to 5%) to attend meetings, visit hatcheries, and field sites statewide to develop and oversee complex scientific genetic studies and lead genetic assessments.
-Overnight or multi-night travel (up to 5%) may be necessary to reach fish hatcheries, field sites, and meeting locations which may require travel of up to eight or more hours each way.
