About University of California, Davis
The University of California, Davis, commonly known as UC Davis, is a prestigious public research university founded in 1905 as an agricultural branch of the University of California system. It evolved into a full-fledged university in 1959 and has since become renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, and public service. Located primarily in Davis, California, with significant facilities in nearby Sacramento, including the UC Davis Medical Center, the university spans over 5,300 acres and serves as a hub for innovation in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences. UC Davis is part of the University of California system and boasts a diverse student body of over 40,000, with strong emphases on sustainability and global impact.
Key achievements include ranking among the top public universities in the U.S., with notable strengths in biological sciences, engineering, and law. The university's mission focuses on advancing knowledge through research and education while addressing societal challenges. Campus locations include the main campus in Davis and specialized centers in Sacramento for health sciences. For more details, visit the University of California, Davis Website. Explore related opportunities in Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in California, and Academic Jobs in Sacramento.
UC Davis has a rich history of pioneering advancements, such as developing sustainable farming practices and leading in wine and food sciences through its Viticulture and Enology program. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion fosters an environment where academics thrive. Whether you're interested in professor positions at University of California, Davis or higher education jobs, this institution offers unparalleled resources for career growth.
Notable alumni include figures like astronaut Tracy Caldwell Dyson and politician Jerry Brown, underscoring the university's influence. For academics seeking rate professors at University of California, Davis or academic careers at University of California, Davis, the university provides a dynamic setting with access to cutting-edge facilities and collaborative networks.
Faculty Job Opportunities at University of California, Davis
💼 Faculty job opportunities at University of California, Davis are abundant, particularly in high-demand areas like agriculture, biological sciences, engineering, and veterinary medicine. As a top-tier research institution, UC Davis frequently hires for roles such as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Lecturer, and Research Fellow. Recent trends show a surge in positions related to sustainable technologies and climate change research, with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences leading in job postings. For instance, professor positions at University of California, Davis in the Department of Plant Sciences often focus on crop improvement and food security.
Salary ranges for these roles are competitive; based on 2023-2024 data from UC salary reports, Assistant Professors earn approximately $100,000 to $130,000 annually, while Full Professors can expect $150,000 to $250,000 or more, depending on department and experience. Factors like grant funding and tenure status influence pay. In the School of Veterinary Medicine, research jobs at University of California, Davis offer salaries starting at $120,000 for mid-level positions, reflecting the university's strength in animal health.
Lecturer roles at University of California, Davis provide entry points for early-career academics, with opportunities in undergraduate teaching across disciplines like computer science and economics. Job trends for 2025 indicate growth in interdisciplinary fields, such as data science and environmental policy, driven by UC Davis's commitment to addressing global challenges. Academic careers at University of California, Davis benefit from robust support systems, including professional development programs.
To explore these opportunities, visit AcademicJobs.com's filtered search for higher education jobs at University of California, Davis. Whether seeking faculty jobs at University of California, Davis or research positions, the university's location in California enhances appeal with access to Silicon Valley collaborations. Salaries in University of California, Davis academia are among the highest in public universities, making it a prime destination for talent.
Assistant Professor in Engineering
Focus on sustainable energy; salary $110,000-$140,000.
Lecturer in Biological Sciences
Teaching-focused role; salary $80,000-$110,000.
Research Fellow in Veterinary Medicine
Grant-funded position; salary $100,000-$130,000.
Associate Professor in Environmental Science
Tenure-track; salary $130,000-$160,000.
Why Work at University of California, Davis
Working at University of California, Davis offers unparalleled benefits for academics, including access to world-class research facilities and a supportive community focused on innovation. The university's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration allows faculty to engage in groundbreaking projects, such as sustainable agriculture and biotechnology. Career prospects are enhanced by strong funding opportunities from sources like the National Science Foundation, with UC Davis securing over $900 million in research awards annually.
Unique advantages include the university's location in Northern California, providing proximity to tech hubs and natural landscapes for work-life balance. Benefits packages feature comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, and sabbatical opportunities. Academic opportunities at University of California, Davis are rewarding for those passionate about societal impact, with programs like the One Health Institute addressing global health challenges.
Compared to other institutions, UC Davis stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where faculty thrive. Explore why academic careers at University of California, Davis are ideal through Higher Ed Career Advice.
Salary Guide for Faculty at University of California, Davis
📊 The salary guide for faculty at University of California, Davis reflects its status as a leading public university, with competitive compensation influenced by rank, department, experience, and location. Based on 2023-2024 data from the UC Office of the President and sources like Glassdoor, average faculty salaries range from $90,000 for entry-level positions to over $200,000 for senior roles. For example, in high-demand fields like medicine and engineering, salaries are higher due to market adjustments.
Assistant Professors typically earn $100,000 to $130,000, with variations by department—STEM fields like computer science average $120,000, while humanities may start at $95,000. Associate Professors see ranges of $120,000 to $160,000, and Full Professors $150,000 to $250,000 or more, especially in the School of Medicine in Sacramento. Factors affecting pay include tenure status, research grants, and cost-of-living adjustments in California.
Compared to national averages, salaries at University of California, Davis are 10-15% higher, supported by state funding and endowments. For 2025 trends, expect increases in salaries for roles in AI and sustainability, with bonuses for exceptional performance. Location in Sacramento area adds value through lower taxes on certain benefits. For detailed comparisons, check Professor Salaries and University Salaries.
This guide helps job seekers understand earning potential in academic careers at University of California, Davis, ensuring informed decisions. Additional perks like housing allowances can boost effective income.
| Rank | Average Salary | Department Example |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Professor | $100,000-$130,000 | Engineering |
| Associate Professor | $120,000-$160,000 | Biological Sciences |
| Full Professor | $150,000-$250,000 | Veterinary Medicine |
| Lecturer | $80,000-$110,000 | Humanities |
Rate My Professor: Top Educators at University of California, Davis
⭐ Discover top educators at University of California, Davis through Rate My Professor on AcademicJobs.com, where students and peers rate professors based on teaching quality, clarity, and engagement. This platform helps in choosing courses and recognizing excellence in programs like environmental science and engineering.
Dr. Jay Lund - Civil Engineering
Rating: 4.8/5 - Expert in water resources; praised for real-world applications.
Dr. Louise Kellogg - Earth and Planetary Sciences
Rating: 4.7/5 - Innovative teaching in geophysics.
Dr. Ermias Kebreab - Animal Science
Rating: 4.9/5 - Leader in sustainable agriculture research.
Dr. Susan Ustin - Environmental Science
Rating: 4.6/5 - Engaging lectures on remote sensing.
Dr. Peter Wainwright - Evolution and Ecology
Rating: 4.8/5 - Dynamic approach to biology education.
Career Progression at University of California, Davis
Career progression at University of California, Davis follows a structured path, starting from postdoctoral roles to tenure-track positions. Salaries increase with rank: Postdocs at $60,000-$80,000, Assistant Professors at $100,000+, leading to Full Professor with $150,000+. Strengths in research funding support advancement, with resources like the Faculty Development Program. Learn more at Higher Ed Career Advice.
Tenure-track opportunities emphasize publications and grants, with UC Davis excelling in collaborative projects.
Research and Innovation at University of California, Davis
🔬 Research at University of California, Davis focuses on agriculture, climate change, and health sciences, with centers like the Genome Center and funding exceeding $900 million. Trends for 2025 include AI in farming and biotech. Explore Research Jobs.
Collaborations with industry enhance innovation opportunities.
Resources for University of California, Davis Academics
- 🎓 Professional development through the Center for Educational Effectiveness.
- Union support via University Council-AFT.
- Benefits including health insurance and retirement plans.
- Access to grants via the Office of Research.
Student Life and Perspectives at University of California, Davis
Student life at University of California, Davis features vibrant programs in STEM and arts, with career outcomes leading to high employment rates. Use Rate My Professor for professor selection. Resources include the Internship and Career Center.

