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Zebrafish Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Zebrafish information

See California salary details

$41.9K

$84.8K

$115K

How much do zebrafish jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for zebrafish in California is $84,834.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a zebrafish?

A Zebrafish job typically involves working with zebrafish in scientific research, often in genetics, developmental biology, or drug testing. Researchers use zebrafish as model organisms because of their genetic similarity to humans and their transparent embryos, which allow for easy observation of developmental processes. Responsibilities may include breeding, maintaining fish colonies, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. This role is commonly found in academic, pharmaceutical, and biomedical research settings.

What is the difference between Zebrafish vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectZebrafishLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBiological sciences background, sometimes specialized in aquatic modelsVaries; often requires a degree in biology, chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs focusing on aquatic models, vivariumsGeneral labs across various scientific disciplines
Industry UsagePrimarily in biomedical research, genetics, developmental biologyAcross multiple sectors including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, research

While Zebrafish are specific aquatic models used in research, Laboratory Technicians support various lab functions across industries. Zebrafish roles focus on maintaining and breeding aquatic models, whereas Laboratory Technicians handle broader laboratory tasks. Both require scientific backgrounds but differ in specialization and work environment.

What does a zebrafish researcher do?

Zebrafish researchers are scientists who use zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model organism to study various biological processes, diseases, and genetics. Their work often involves breeding zebrafish, conducting experiments to understand development, genetics, and disease mechanisms, and analyzing the results to draw conclusions about human health and biology. Because zebrafish share many genetic similarities with humans and have transparent embryos, they are valuable for studying development, drug discovery, and toxicology.

What are common challenges faced by zebrafish researchers in maintaining healthy laboratory colonies?

Zebrafish researchers often encounter challenges in maintaining healthy colonies, such as managing water quality, preventing disease outbreaks, and ensuring proper breeding conditions. Consistent monitoring of pH, temperature, and ammonia levels is essential to avoid stress and mortality among zebrafish. Additionally, researchers must implement strict quarantine and sanitation protocols to minimize the risk of pathogens, and regularly assess breeding strategies to sustain genetically diverse and robust populations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a zebrafish researcher?

To thrive as a Zebrafish researcher, you need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and animal handling, typically supported by a degree in biology or related life sciences. Experience with laboratory techniques such as CRISPR, fluorescence microscopy, and zebrafish husbandry systems is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective collaboration are key soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for conducting reliable experiments, maintaining animal welfare standards, and advancing scientific discoveries using zebrafish models.
What are the most commonly searched types of Zebrafish jobs in California? The most popular types of Zebrafish jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Zebrafish jobs in California? For Zebrafish jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Zebrafish jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Zebrafish jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Zebrafish job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,834 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Staff Research Associate I - 140742

University of California San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$30.12 - $32.10/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Payroll Title:
SRA 1 Department:
SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL SCI. Hiring Pay Scale
$30.12 - $32.10 / Hour Worksite:
Campus Appointment Type:
Limited Appointment Appointment Percent:
100% Union:
RX Contract Total Openings:
1 Work Schedule:
Days, 8 hrs/day, Mon - Fri
#140742 Staff Research Associate I
Filing Deadline: Fri 8/14/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
This is a 100% limited appointment for twelve (12) months, with the possibility of extension or conversation to career status based on the needs of the department and funding availability.
DESCRIPTION
Under supervision, participate in research on the genetic regulation of heart formation in zebrafish. Tasks include performing routine experiments under guidance such as: maintaining strains of mutant and transgenic zebrafish, manipulation of zebrafish gene function through genome editing, analysis of embryonic phenotypes through in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, evaluation of differential gene expression and protein localization through transcriptomic and proteomic assays, with corresponding bioinformatic analysis.
Responsible for laboratory management including: ordering and organization of supplies, maintenance of lab and computer equipment, training of undergraduate students, routine preparation of buffers and media, and laboratory safety. Assists in the publication of scientific manuscripts based on experiments performed (when appropriate). Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Basic theoretical and practical background and knowledge in Aquaculture/Fisheries, Genetics, and/or Developmental Biology acquired through a Bachelor's degree in either Biology or Aquaculture/Fisheries or related fields OR an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.
  • Practical competency in standard recombinant DNA research techniques and standard laboratory procedures.
  • Communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to clearly and concisely communicate ideas, thoughts, problems, and policies, with a strong portfolio of interpersonal skills which include the ability to interact with tact, diplomacy and sensitivity.
  • Basic ability to organize, set priorities, meet deadlines, and efficiently carry out multiple and varied tasks during each workday.
  • Ability to proactively and appropriately facilitate the maintenance of lab supplies and equipment, maintain steady levels of lab supplies and organized records.
  • Basic experience with word processing, database, spreadsheet, and graphics software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.
  • Basic ability to keep accurate records of experimental procedures and results, to discuss them, and to prepare relevant oral and written presentations.
  • Basic knowledge of lab safety policies and procedures including hazardous materials procurement, use, storage and disposal.
  • Knowledge and ability to order lab supplies and equipment, with the ability to proactively and appropriately facilitate the maintenance of all lab supplies and equipment.
  • Willingness to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
  • Appropriate physical strength for handling aquaculture equipment.
  • Appropriate dexterity for manipulating zebrafish embryos.
  • Willing to be flexible with work hours to include occasional evening or weekend work as required for animal care and experiments.
  • Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
  • This is a 100% limited appointment for twelve (12) months, with the possibility of extension or conversation to career status based on the needs of the department and funding availability.
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $62,891 - $75,022 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $30.12 - $35.93
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
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.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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