Specialist Food Safety, Sensors, Drones, and Physical Artificial Intelligence

(25-38) University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources Application Window Open date: October 28, 2026 Next review date: Monday, Dec 7, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee. Final date: Monday, Mar 29, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled. Position description Position Overview The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), in collaboration with the University of California, Santa Cruz, invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialist at the Assistant rank. Food safety is a major priority for California agriculture, especially in the fresh produce industry. This position will address evolving food safety challenges in specialty crop production by bringing needed scientific and technical expertise to the field, with a focus on the intersection of food safety and organic/regenerative farming practices. The specialist will examine how agricultural technologies can help California growers ensure harvest safety while using organic and regenerative practices. Relevant technologies include sensors and biosensors, spectral and hyperspectral imaging, aerial and ground drones, agricultural robotics and physical Artificial Intelligence, edge and embedded computing, wireless sensor networks, and machine learning for field-scale data. UC ANR seeks a candidate who can bridge electrical and computer engineering with agricultural technology and translate new engineering capabilities into practical food safety tools for growers. UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Specialists develop and conduct research and educational programs aimed at appropriate clientele groups in communities outside of UC campuses. UCCE Specialists have programs primarily focused on mission-oriented research or creative work that support the university's efforts to extend knowledge, including outreach and community engagement. Mission-oriented research encompasses the entire research continuum, from basic research to the application of research results. This research is generally applied in nature and aims to solve a problem facing society related to the mission of the UCCE Specialist's discipline and the UCCE mission. UCCE Specialists publish the results of applied research in a combination of research publication types, whether peer-reviewed or not, based on the relevant audiences served by the UCCE Specialist's program. The extension program disseminates knowledge and information to clientele groups to improve their ability to understand and address the problems and opportunities they face. The extension educational program serves the University's public service mission. Educational program activities include but are not limited to collaborations with UCCE Advisors, other UCCE Specialists, campus faculty, program teams, workgroups, or clientele groups; developing and presenting educational materials; communicating to clientele through broadcast, print, or electronic media; participating in meetings with clientele; developing and presenting in-service training courses; organizing or participating in workshops, field tours, symposia, or conferences. Much of this work is conducted in partnership with UC ANR's locally based UCCE Advisors. The UCCE Specialist - Advisor and faculty partnership creates an applied research network that benefits both the University and the public at large. This position does not include formal classroom instruction at the University Location headquarters : The specialist will be headquartered at the University of California, Santa Cruz, with secondary office space and presence required at the Monterey Bay Education, Science, and Technology Center (MBEST), in the emerging food safety nexus of Monterey County. Position Details While the Food Safety Modernization Act dictates federal mandates for food safety regulation, wholesalers and buyers drive current compliance practices with more stringent standards enforced via third-party regulators. This de facto enforcement landscape, with proprietary third-party metrics, is obscure and does not necessarily utilize science-based assessment of food safety outcomes. Moreover, increasing pressure for organic/regenerative farm practices (e.g., compost, hedgerows for biodiversity, conservation setbacks, reduced chemical applications), driven by consumers and produce buyers, often conflicts with food safety risk-reduction best practices. Food safety concerns include issues such as E. coli and other bacterial contaminants from animal and bird waste deposited on or around crops, relationships between natural habitats on farms and bacterial pathogens, use or misuse of chemical pesticides, and impacts on worker and community health. As technological innovations advance, there is a need to apply novel technologies to these and other pressing food safety challenges. This specialist will examine and exploit the potential of agricultural technologies to address food safety, from sensing and data acquisition in the field to autonomous systems and AI-driven decision support. The position sits at the interface of electrical and computer engineering and agriculture, and the specialist is expected to work across both. Primary duties and responsibilities for this UCCE Specialist include: • Collaborating extensively with UCSC faculty, as well as UC ANR's network of advisors, specialists, AES faculty, statewide programs, program teams, and institutes. Additional potential collaborators include other UC campuses, the California State University Monterey Bay, Hartnell College, Cabrillo Community College, other academic institutions, community partners, government agencies, and industry partners. • Designing and conducting applied research focused on the intersection of food safety and technology. Potential areas of research include: o Novel approaches to assessing runoff and water contamination using landscape-level assessments across multiple sources (rangeland/pasture, urban, etc.) o New technologies for assessing food safety risk (multispectral and hyperspectral imaging, sensors, AI) through field scouting (aerial and terrestrial drones, ground robots) for vector identification, contamination events, and crop characteristics o Research on the impact of amendments on food safety outcomes o Research on the effects of conservation practices (soil amendments, compost, hedgerows, wetlands, conservation habitat) on food safety outcomes across different cropping systems and climatic regions o Legislative recommendations for drone safety, piloting, and licensing in the agricultural context o Novel approaches to drone applications (spraying, biological payload delivery, imaging) and effectiveness based on scale and frequency o Integration of environmental sensors with drone and robotic applications for real-time adaptation based on site data o Low-cost, field-deployable sensors and biosensors for detecting pathogens, indicator organisms, and chemical contaminants in irrigation water, soil, amendments, and on produce o Wireless sensor networks, edge computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms for continuous environmental monitoring and traceability across the farm-to-packing chain o Physical AI and agricultural robotics, including autonomous ground and aerial systems for scouting, sampling, and intervention, and machine learning models that turn sensor and imaging data into food safety risk maps and decision support for growers o Implications of transitioning to drone spray applications from large aerial vehicles for regulations on drift, overspray, buffers, and community health impacts • Building an effective extension education program (statewide trainings, workshops, educational resources, website, etc.) that helps partners and clientele evaluate and implement sensing, drone, robotic, and AI-based technology strategies to improve food safety outcomes. The specialist will serve as a resource for UCCE Advisors, county agricultural commissioners, pest control associations, government scientists, and regulatory personnel. Additionally, the incumbent may engage in youth training and workforce development, informing the practices and skills needed to train the next generation of agricultural workers with high-tech skills. • Publishing findings in accessible formats, including peer-reviewed journals, ANR outlets, industry publications, and relevant online platforms, to widen the reach and impact of research outcomes. • Participating in professional society activities and scholarly contributions, attaining goals of state, national, and international recognition over time. Counties of Responsibility : This statewide position will serve California's agriculture sector, helping farmers, growers, and ranchers move toward more organic/regenerative and high-tech agriculture. This is an exciting opportunity to impact diverse communities throughout the state. Reporting Relationship : The position will be academically positioned within the UC Santa Cruz Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. The appointment is within UC ANR, and UC ANR will oversee the merit and promotion process, consistent with other UCCE Specialists, in consultation with the UCSC Department Chair. The UCCE Specialist will also hold an additional 0% (uncompensated) UCCE Specialist appointment at UCSC. It is not a remote position; the candidate must be available to work onsite at the UCSC campus and MBEST. Qualifications and Skills Required Required Qualifications Education A minimum of a Ph.D. (or equivalent) in electrical engineering, computer engineering, agricultural engineering, biological or biosystems engineering, robotics, computer science, or a related field is required at the time of appointment. Applicants who have not yet earned a Ph.D. must be within 12 months of completing their degree to be considered for the position. Key Qualifications • Demonstrated expertise in technologies that can be applied in agriculture, such as sensors and biosensors, spectral imaging, drones, robotics and physical AI, embedded systems, wireless sensing, or machine learning • Substantive experience in one or more areas related to the position, such as organic and regenerative agriculture, food safety, and agricultural technology, and the ability to bridge electrical and computer engineering with agricultural applications • Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly to non-scientific and public audiences • Demonstrated record of productivity in research as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed journals • A track record of effectively engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders • Experience in leading collaborative research teams • Technical Competence needed to: o Conduct and report needs assessments to identify priority issues or problems relevant to the clientele groups served. o Develop and implement effective UC ANR Cooperative Extension applied research and educational programs to address the identified priority needs of the clientele that are consistent with ANR's Strategic Vision and Initiatives. o Design, conduct, analyze, and disseminate applied research that uses technologies such as sensors, drones, and physical AI to address food safety in agriculture. • Communication skills necessary to: o Disseminate appropriate, science-based information to inform clientele, using extension methods that are responsive to clientele needs and suitable for the audience and situation. o Maintain and promote UC ANR Cooperative Extension's credibility by providing science-based knowledge. o Evaluate programs and report accomplishments, results, and potential or actual impacts to scientific and lay audiences through various outreach methods, e.g., peer-reviewed publications, internet, workshops, and newsletters. • Collaboration and teamwork skills needed to: o Build collaborative working relationships with UCCE Advisors, UCCE Specialists, Academic Coordinators, Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) faculty, and program staff across UC ANR and UC Santa Cruz by participating in program teams and work groups. o Engage with a network external to UC ANR, including state and local agency staff, policymakers, civic organizations, and nonprofit partners. • Lifelong Learning: o Participate in professional organizations and collaborate with state government and agencies related to food safety in agriculture and its intersections with technology. o Demonstrate commitment to ongoing growth-both professionally and as a person. Desired Experience • Experience with integrated research and educational projects and extension to diverse audiences • A track record of applying for and securing extramural funding Additional Requirements • This is not a remote position. • Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed; proof of liability and property damage insurance on the vehicle used is required. Must possess or obtain a valid California Driver's License to drive a County or University Vehicle. • This position is open to individuals who are currently authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for new employment-based petitions; limited support may be available for eligible visa transfers when legally permissible. Internal UC ANR applicants with questions may contact Katie Kilbane at klkilbane@ucanr.edu . • Applicants need to meet appointment criteria for the respective University of California academic title series and provide evidence of success in meeting the required academic advancement criteria as per UC Academic Personnel Manuals. • A background check will be required for the successful candidate. Employment within UC ANR is contingent upon securing written acknowledgment to comply with California law. • As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. • Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students, and Third Parties • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment About UC ANR UC ANR is a division of the University of California (UC) system that bridges the gap between local issues and the UC system's expertise by providing research-based information, educational programs, and technical expertise to the public in areas such as agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, and youth development. UC ANR is part of a nationwide Cooperative Extension network, which began in the early 20th century to connect research from land-grant universities with the everyday needs of people in communities across the United States. Today, we collaborate with farmers, ranchers, diverse communities, youth and adult educators, and policymakers to address local and statewide issues related to food systems, water, climate change, economic development, and sustainable agriculture through a statewide network of campus-based researchers, county-based advisors, and community educators. Our mission is to cultivate thriving communities, sustainable agriculture, resilient ecosystems, and economic prosperity in California and globally through equitable generation and sharing of collaborative, science-based solutions. Over 180 UCCE Advisors conduct applied research and extension education at county-based UCCE offices across 70+ locations, serving all 58 counties. By working and living among those we serve, UC ANR expands the University of California's reach to engage all people and communities in California, ensuring equal access to the resources UC offers. Our vision is that UC ANR will be valued in every California community for the positive difference it makes in people's lives. About the University of California, Santa Cruz UCSC, one of the UC system's ten campuses, opened in 1965. It is known for impactful research, teaching, and public service, as well as innovation across many fields. Located in and around a redwood forest overlooking the Monterey Bay, UC Santa Cruz is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful college campuses in the world. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at UC Santa Cruz aims to achieve engineering discoveries that benefit humankind through a combination of curiosity, open-mindedness, and inclusiveness. UCSC is also home to the Center for Agroecology which advances agroecology and equitable food systems through experiential education, participatory research, agricultural extension, and public service. Its centerpieces are the 3-acre Alan Chadwick Garden and the 30-acre USCS Farm, which serve as outdoor classrooms and teaching sites. UCSC hosts a new AgTech Alliance focused on developing socially responsible technology for a sustainable future, as well as the CITRIS Initiative for Drone Education and Research (CIDER) which offers educational training and research support for the development and use of drone technology across all academic disciplines and many industry sectors. Learn More About • UC ANR , UC ANR Mission Statement , and UC ANR Strategic Vision 2040 • UC ANR administers Statewide Programs and Institutes that focus research and extension on solving priority problems that engage ANR academics and UC faculty in integrated teams • UC ANR Program Areas and Program Teams help unify, communicate, and advocate for the work we do. • UC ANR uses Public value statements and Condition changes to communicate how our work makes a difference to the public. • UC ANR academics are expected to share and exhibit UC ANR's commitment to Civil Rights • UC ANR is committed to supporting inclusive excellence and is guided by UC ANR's Principles of Community . We strive to create an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, feel valued and respected and have equal opportunities for growth and success. • UC Santa Cruz Salary & Benefits Salary : The salary range for this UC Cooperative Extension Specialist is Assistant Rank, Step I ($94,300) to Step VI ($123,300). Step placement in this series is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications. For information regarding UC Cooperative Extension Specialist salary scales, please refer to the University of California salary scale . The UC Cooperative Extension Specialist position is a two-year renewable-term appointment. Performance in this position is evaluated annually, with merit actions being evaluated every two years. Upon completion of a successful review, you may be reappointed for another definite term. Our intention with this definite term appointment is to be reappointed based on positive performance reviews and the continuing need for the position. Benefits : The University of California offers comprehensive benefits, including 2 days of paid vacation per month, 1 day of paid sick leave per month, and paid holidays. This position is eligible for sabbatical leave privileges per the terms of University policy. ANR is part of UC's Family-Friendly Policies. For more information, refer to the UC Benefits website . How to Apply If interested in this position, please visit UC Recruit and choose "applicants" (refer to position #25-38). An in-person finalist interview may be required as part of the search process. Closing Date : To ensure full consideration, application packets must be received by December 7, 2026 - (open until filled). Questions? Contact Tatiana Avoce at tavoce@ucanr.edu As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law. As of January 1, 2014, ANR is a smoke- and tobacco-free environment in which smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes), is strictly prohibited. Application Requirements Document requirements Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V. Cover Letter Statement of Research and Extension - Statement of Research and Extension Please submit a 2-page Statement of Research and Extension Interests including how your current and/or past research and extension experience could contribute to, or be applicable to, the needs of the local community. Provide examples of potential goals and outcomes from your research and extension activities. References - Please provide three references (names, titles and contact information). Transcripts - College Level Transcripts Electronic transcripts or legible scanned copies (PDF) of original transcripts will be accepted. Transcripts must identify course work completed, grades earned, degrees conferred and confer dates. Please DO NOT send transcripts that are password protected. On your Transcripts, please redact all personal information (date of birth, social security number, resident status, etc.) prior to uploading. Reference requirements 3-5 required (contact information only) Three names, titles and contact information. About UC Agriculture and Natural Resources The University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy. Job location Santa Cruz, CA To apply, please visit: https://recruit.ucanr.edu/JPF00416 je-8be9cc4cb0214f719059a15748ff3838