"UC Cooperative Extension Specialist- Produce Safety Systems"

UC Cooperative Extension Specialist- Produce Safety Systems, located at the USDA-ARS Sam Farr United States Crop Improvement and Protection Center in Salinas, CA.

Position Overview
The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) invites applications for a UC Cooperative Extension Specialist at the Assistant or Associate rank. This role focuses on improving the safety of fruits and vegetables in California through One Health strategies, addressing foodborne pathogen risks and compliance with regulations like the FSMA Produce Safety Rule.

Major Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct applied research on produce safety topics, including mechanisms of E. coli O157:H7 introduction and persistence.
- Develop cross-disciplinary collaborations to enhance food safety systems.
- Lead efforts in disseminating best practices for pre- and post-harvest safety.
- Provide leadership and science-based information to stakeholders.
- Catalyze funding for a Produce Safety Response Network.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Counties of Responsibility
Work closely with advisors and partners in the Salinas Valley and northern Central Coast.

Qualifications and Skills Required
- Ph.D. in agronomy, horticulture, plant pathology, produce safety, food science, environmental microbiology, or related field.
- Extensive multidisciplinary experience in applied research.
- Excellent communication skills and stakeholder engagement.
- Strong publication record and ability to travel.

Desired Experience
- Postdoctoral or faculty experience in food safety.
- Grant funding experience.
- Instructor experience for FSMA courses.

Skills Required
- Technical competence in developing research and educational programs.
- Effective communication and dissemination of science-based information.
- Collaboration with UC ANR teams and stakeholders.
- Commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.

Salary & Benefits
Salary range: Assistant rank $87,700 to $114,800 annually; Associate rank $109,000 to $137,800 annually. Benefits include vacation, sick leave, holidays, and sabbatical eligibility. For more details, refer to the UC salary scales.

About UC ANR: UC ANR bridges local issues with UC expertise, providing research-based programs in agriculture and natural resources.