Rsch Gnt Prg Ofcr 3 (Grant And Science Writer)

Department Purpose

The USDA/NSF AI institute of Food Systems (AIFS) is a partnership of 6 organizations (UC Davis, UC Berkeley, Cornell, UIUC, UC ANR, USDA) with a mission to empower the next generation with sustainable production, processing, and distribution of nutritious food through transformative AI technologies. Headquartered in Davis, CA, it is one of 25 national institutes funded by NSF and USDA for 5 years in 6 thematic areas of strategic importance to the nation. AIFS involves a team of approximately 50 faculty and other professionals working on research, education and outreach programs, across a nationwide network of partners and local offices. AIFS has 2 foundational cross- cutting (AI and Socioeconomics) and 4 research (molecular breeding, agricultural production, food production and distribution, nutrition) clusters.

Job Summary

Under the direction of the AIFS Associate Director, the successful candidate will work closely with the AIFS leadership and researchers to write grant applications to funding sources and to write summaries of AIFS research for the public and potential funding sources.

Position Information

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work in an area where there is constant traffic and noise from office machines, telephones, and conversations.
• Limited vacation during events and peak periods.
• Work flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet operational needs.
• This is a contract position that may be renewed annually up to a maximum total of 5-years. Position may be converted to career depending on funding.
• Frequent travel across campus utilizing personal vehicle. Out of state travel may be required as Institute advances.

• The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

• Experience summarizing scientific topics for public consumption.
• Experience with writing grants, particularly to government agencies.
• Masters’ degree in any scientific discipline, or relevant experience that provides the scientific and technical skills required to support this role.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Advanced skills with MS Office Suite, or similar applications, and technology systems: word processing (e.g. MS Word), presentation slide development (e.g. MS PowerPoint), graphics (e.g. Adobe Illustrator) spreadsheet (e.g. MS Excel), database, calendaring, AV equipment, content management systems and social media platforms.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills to establish and maintain effective positive and cooperative relationships with a diverse group of internal/external stakeholders in higher education, campus, and broader scientific community.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Education/Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in creating effective scientific content for successful public communication initiatives, awarded grants, presentations, among others, for internal and external audiences, including but not limited to governments, institutes, leadership, and funders.
• Experience with university-based research concepts, principles, and conduct of research.
• Two or more years of experience within a complex organization writing and securing grants. Ph.D. degree with preference in agricultural science, Food Science, Computer Science, or other fields that align well with AIFS mission.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Knowledge of campus policies and procedures to interpret inquiries and requests to formulate appropriate action or response.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At UC Davis, we’re solving life’s most urgent challenges to bring a fuller, healthier, and more resilient world within reach. We grow from every challenge we take on and we don’t just maintain - we improve.

We recognize that creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant organization means understanding and valuing both our individual differences and our common ground. The most comprehensive solutions come from the most diverse minds, and you belong here.

As you consider joining UC Davis, please explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education, and our latest efforts to outgrow the expected.

The University of California 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.