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Phd Program Jobs in Davis, CA (NOW HIRING)

These include frontend and backend engineers, AI research scientists, and others from Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, leading PhD programs like Stanford, high growth startups like Stripe, Vercel, Bolt ...

You are currently enrolled or a recent graduate from a BS, MS, PhD, or MBA program * You have technical expertise in one or more of the following: * Mechanical Engineering, including design, analysis ...

You are currently enrolled or a recent graduate from a BS, MS, PhD, or MBA program * You have technical expertise in one or more of the following: * Mechanical Engineering, including design, analysis ...

You are currently enrolled or a recent graduate from a BS, MS, PhD, or MBA program * You have technical expertise in one or more of the following: * Mechanical Engineering, including design, analysis ...

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Phd Program information

See Davis, CA salary details

$27K

$97.9K

$127K

How much do phd program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd program in Davis, CA is $97,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $125,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges students face during a PhD program and how can they be addressed?

PhD students often encounter challenges such as managing a heavy workload, maintaining motivation during long research projects, and balancing research with teaching or other commitments. Navigating ambiguous research directions and handling setbacks are also frequent hurdles. Building a strong support network, seeking regular feedback from advisors, and engaging with peers can help address these challenges. Many universities offer resources like counseling, writing workshops, and career guidance to support PhD students throughout their journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a PhD program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a PhD program, you need advanced subject knowledge, strong research skills, and typically a master's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with academic databases, data analysis software (like SPSS, R, or Python), and citation management tools is often required. Exceptional critical thinking, time management, perseverance, and written and verbal communication skills set successful candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for conducting independent research, contributing original knowledge, and navigating the rigorous demands of doctoral study.

What is a PhD program?

A PhD program is an advanced academic course of study that culminates in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. It typically involves several years of original research, coursework, and comprehensive exams, followed by the completion and defense of a dissertation. PhD programs are designed for individuals who wish to pursue careers in academia, research, or highly specialized professional fields. Admission is competitive and usually requires a master's degree or equivalent experience. Successful graduates are recognized as experts in their chosen fields.

What is the difference between Phd Program vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd ProgramResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree; pursuing or completed PhDUsually requires a PhD or equivalent research experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, universities, research labs during studyIndustry labs, corporate R&D, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and research institutionsPrivate companies, government agencies, biotech, tech firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding educational pathways and research rolesCareer progression and industry research roles

The main difference is that a Phd Program is an educational pathway focused on earning a doctorate degree, often in academia or research training, while a Research Scientist is a professional role in industry or research institutions, typically requiring a PhD and involving applied research work.

What cities near Davis, CA are hiring for Phd Program jobs? Cities near Davis, CA with the most Phd Program job openings:
Graduate Student Assistant - Research Technologist Enforcement Division (Remote)

Graduate Student Assistant - Research Technologist Enforcement Division (Remote)

University Enterprises, Inc.

Sacramento, CA • On-site, Remote

$27.31 - $33.52/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description
The California Privacy Protection Agency (CalPrivacy) is seeking to hire two (2) Graduate Student Assistants (Ph.D.) who is interested in serving as a research technologist to help attorneys develop tools, research methods, examination techniques, and inquiry methods relating to privacy. This position is part-time and ideal for the academic year and during breaks.
Requirements
Conditions of
Employment
This is a part-time, temporary, non-benefited, student position. Employment in all positions with University Enterprises, Inc. is dependent upon the mutual consent of University Enterprises, Inc. and the employee. This means that either University Enterprises, Inc. or the employee can, at any time, terminate the employment relationship at will, with or without cause.
Depending on the type of position you are applying for, a pre-employment background check consisting of one or more of the following may be conducted: employment history, professional references, criminal check: educational verification (degree, license, or official transcript) or DMV clearance. Applicants will be required to pass required pre-employment checks to the satisfaction of University Enterprises, Inc. (UEI) and the hiring Agency or Department.
UEI does not allow students to hold more than one UEI Job at a time, or work in more than one account per pay period. UEI employees who are considering leaving their current UEI student assistant position for a different UEI student assistant position should inform their supervisor in writing and provide at least a week's notice.
UEI is not a multi-state employer. UEI only employs candidates who live and work in the state of California. If selected for the position you must reside in California and all work must be performed in the state of California throughout the course of employment.
Prerequisites
Must be a college graduate student attending classes during the regular term (Fall, Spring and Winter, if applicable), at one of the accredited colleges or universities on our affiliation list. To view our current affiliation list please paste the following URL into your browser: http://www.calinterns.org/wp-content/uploads/Affiliation_List.pdf
Students must be Ph.D. candidates and enrolled in at least four-semester units or six quarter units.
Students declared major must match the major(s) listed in the job posting.
Majors/Fields of Study
Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Science, or any related Engineering or Science degree that includes a background in privacy research.
Work Schedule
Flexible workdays and work hours, Monday - Friday, between 8 AM - 5 PM. The final work schedule will be determined by the supervisor.
Additional Work Schedule
Graduate Assistant employees generally work up to 24 hours per workweek (Sunday - Saturday) during the academic year and up to 40 hours per workweek during breaks; (winter, spring, and summer).
Compensation
$27.31 to 33.52 per hour.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Must currently be enrolled in a PhD program.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills with the ability to multi-task.
  • Access to a professional work environment or workspace.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Three or more years of specialized technical expertise in technology research, technology policy, software engineering, or security.
  • Familiarity with systems and processes that implement consumer privacy choices.
  • Familiarity with mobile technology, digital advertising technology, cookies, tracking, and consumer privacy.
  • Experience conducting research, auditing, testing, or forensics on systems that impact consumer privacy.
  • History of publications in academic journals relating to consumer privacy and related technology.
  • Demonstrated ability to simplify complex technical subjects and communicate them to a lay audience.
  • Individuals who are, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 18220 are encouraged to apply and will be given priority. Please note that prior to appointment, individuals claiming preference under one of these categories will be required to furnish documentation establishing their eligibility.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop appropriate tools, research methods, examination techniques, and inquiry methods relating to privacy.
  • Research privacy-related business practices and the technologies underlying those practices.
  • Review business practices and their privacy and security impacts on consumers, workers, and businesses.
  • Advise enforcement staff on a broad range of technology issues pertaining to privacy and security.
  • Research consumer complaints to identify trends and potential violations of California privacy law.
  • Assist attorneys within CalPrivacy's Enforcement Division to support investigations and enforcement actions.
  • Strengthen and support CalPrivacy's investigatory responsibilities by monitoring current and next-generation privacy violations involving a range of technology-related issues.
  • Assist in identifying new avenues of investigation.
  • Gather and analyze data to help develop ideas for potential enforcement actions.

Physical Requirements
Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment including computer workstations, telephones, calculators, copiers, printers, and scanners with or without reasonable accommodation.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a remote environment.
Students/Employees will be required to work according to the current UEI remote workplace policy and sign a UEI Work from Home Agreement. The decision to permit an employee to work from home is at the discretion of the supervisor or employer and may, at any time and with or without cause, unilaterally terminate the option to work from home.
Application Instructions
Please complete all fields of the employment application. Include your educational history in the "Educational Experience" section and any employment history in the "Employment Experience" section of our application.
In addition to your resume, please upload the following documents:
  • A cover letter indicating when you are slated to graduate, and why you are interested in this position.

Apply by: September 30, 2026

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About University Enterprises

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As the nation’s leading university system, the CSU has pushed the boundaries of higher education for 60 years. We remain committed to delivering quality education, while fostering a culture of inclusion and understanding for our students and valued faculty and staff.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sacramento, CA, US