Archived News

Archived News

Associate to Full Specialist - Wang Lab

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise (e.g. with instrumentation and research equipment or with social science research methods) in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated areas of specialization. With in this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork, and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception an /or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.

James Seiber, Environmental Chemist and Philanthropist, Dies at 82

Seiber spent more than two decades at UC Davis (was FST Chair from 2009-2011)

James “Jim” Seiber, a renowned environmental chemist whose work kickstarted research into the effects of air pollution and who spent decades at UC Davis dedicated to teaching, research and service, died earlier this month. He was 82.

Over the course of more than 25 years and during two different stints, Seiber mentored students, supported faculty, published hundreds of research papers, served as an associate dean and edited many scientific journals.

Nearly 70% of Private Label Avocado Oil Rancid or Mixed With Other Oils

Quick Summary
  • Of 36 private labeled avocado oils, 31% were pure and 36% of advertised quality
  • Extremely low-priced avocado oils were more likely to be adulterated
  • Professional buyers can use common markers to choose authentic products for consumers

Avocado oil has become a popular choice for many people in recent years because of its heart-healthy benefits and versatility in cooking. However, not all avocado oil products on store shelves are created equal. Some products are labeled as “pure” avocado oil when they contain other oils or additives.

Spring 2023 Extension Summary

The UC Davis Viticulture and Enology Extension Team has been quite active since January. We hosted a booth in the exhibit hall at the Unified Symposium in Sacramento (January 25 and 26, 2023) and a reception at the Hyatt for alumni, students, faculty, and friends on the Wednesday evening of the Unified Symposium in Sacramento (January 25, 2023). It was so great to visit with everyone that stopped by the booth or attended the reception!

FST students win Iron Brew 2023

Congratulations to the 2023 Iron Brew winners! Each year, the students in the practical malting and brewing course at UC Davis formulate a recipe and compete for the Iron Brew title. The winning team includes Food Science and Technology students Sarah Jane Suriano, Asuka Okamoto, Yoon Jung Choi and Zachary Alan Carling. Their English porter was scaled up with the help of Sudwerk Brewing Company and will be released at the Gunrock Pub on campus June 8, and at Sudwerk on June 9.

Research Profile: Andrew McElrone

Andrew McElrone is a Research Plant Physiologist with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. He originally hails from the east coast, completed his graduate training at the University of Maryland, and a post-doctoral fellowship at Duke University. Prior to coming to Davis in 2006, Andrew previously held a position as an Assistant Professor of Biology and Environmental Science at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.

Alumni Profile: Jessica Tomei

Year and degree of graduation
2001 with a BS in Viticulture & Enology and a BA in Spanish 

Current job title/company 
Vice President, Winemaking, The Wine Group 

What have you been up to since you graduated?  
I have worked around the globe (Italy and Chile) and throughout California. I have worked in various parts of the industry including winemaking, sales, marketing, importing and logistics.