Closing Date:

February 24, 2020

Job Address:

1380 Oakville Grade Road 
Napa, CA 94558

Job Description:

A postdoctoral research scholar position is available in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at University of California Davis in our Oakville Experimental Vineyard. The primary responsibility of this position will be to conduct studies that will increase our knowledge on effects of climate change and palliating effects of increases in berry temperature and ultraviolet radiation on grapevine metabolism. The current studies include applied water amounts and selective screening of ultraviolet radiation and how these practices may affect grapevine leaf gas exchanges, carbohydrate metabolism and grape berry flavonoid chemistry and the resultant wine product.

The responsibility of the candidate is to oversee and/or participate in all aspects of research projects: ordering equipment and supplies, designing sampling protocols, overseeing field sample and data collection with infrared gas analyzer, conducting carbohydrate and low molecular weight flavonoid analysis using reverse-phased high performance liquid chromatography and other laboratory analyses, communicating with growers, writing reports, and preparing manuscripts for refereed journal publication. Supervision and interaction with graduate and undergraduate students working within the project is also expected.

Applicants with a Ph.D. degree in Plant Physiology, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a related field will be considered. Candidates should have skill and an understanding of plant biology, infra-red gas exchange equipment, and reverse-phased HPLC methods and molecular biology. A valid California driver’s license or the ability to obtain one is required. Candidates with a proven work ethic, publication record, leadership, and team building skills will be given preference.

Laboratory Experimental Research (30%)

Operate RP-HPLC used for the analysis of grape carbohydrates, berry and wine flavonoids.
Follow experimental protocols and standard operating procedures for grapevine primary metabolites.
Maintaining lab safety procedures and material safety data sheets.
Assist in ordering, stocking, and inventorying supplies and chemicals as related to the experiments.
Reagent, pure standard, HPLC and UV/VIS spectrophotometry, laboratory consumables storage area management in relation with the assignment

Research Communication (25%)

Ability to conduct statistical analysis using the R language
Write and provide research updates.
Participate in stakeholder, extension and scientific presentations
Write and submit peer-reviewed research articles.

Field experiments (30%)

Monitor phenological development, operate spectroradiometer for transmittance and reflection, operate infrared gas analyzer for leaf gas exchanges.

Proposal Development (15%)

Work with supervisor and research team on proposal development and preparation.

Develop and submit peripheral supporting project proposals to local, state, and/or federal grant programs. Storage management.

To Apply:

https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF03066

Questions should be addressed to Kaan Kurtural, 707-944-0126
skkurtural@ucdavis.edu