What we expect around time, pay, and managing your projects, and what you can expect from the lab in return.
Work hours
| Role | Time commitment |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Part-time (we request ~8 hrs/week as a volunteer; more with EME/EAE 199 units or by interest, as agreed) |
| Graduate (MSc & PhD) | Full-time (roughly 40 hrs/week with variable time split between GSR, TA, and coursework) |
| Postdoc | Full-time (40 hrs/week) |
Hours vary week to week with classes, experiments, conferences, and deadlines. A graduate researcher’s load also shifts over time, with more coursework early and more research later.
Undergraduates should prioritize their GPA, and tell Christina if you need to adjust a given week. Research should be a beneficial add-on not a substitution for courses. We request your time rather than require it; we understand you’re volunteering it, and we’re grateful for every hour you give.
For everyone:
- Flexible hours. Unless outlined in your contract and discussed in advance there are no fixed expectations about when or how long you’re in the office, as long as the work gets done and your project is progressing in a timely manner.
- Progress over hours. We judge progress by the quality and consistency of your work and your growth, not hours in the office.
- No weekend work expected. See Time off & vacation for leave policies.
- Do not message after-hours. You can work whenever you want, but don’t expect the same from others. See Communication.
- Unwell? Rest. If you’re not well, emotionally or physically, prioritize your health.
Compensation
We’re transparent about funding. Each fall, Christina gives a State of the Lab update on the lab’s funding, major initiatives, and plans for the year ahead. Ask anytime about your appointment, support, or future funding. All salaries are overseen by MAE financial officers and follow UC Davis union agreements.
| Role | Funding |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Not guaranteed; possible after a one-quarter trial when funds allow |
| MSc | Not guaranteed; depends on available support |
| PhD | Paid (variable split between GSR, TA, and fellowships) |
| Postdoc | Paid |
Appointments and rates follow UC Davis policy and union agreements. This table shows how support typically works in the lab, not a guaranteed rate.
All researchers are encouraged to apply for internal and external research funding to support their own professional development.
Project management
- Manage your own project. You should set and meet internal and external targets. Mentoring support helps you build those skills.
- Plan intentionally. We use Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and similar tools.
- Post a weekly Slack update. A few bullet points on your accomplishments, blockers, priorities, deadlines, and requests for support. This keeps Christina informed, surfaces issues early, and lets you look back at how far you’ve come.
Deadlines & planning
- Set and respect internal deadlines. They prevent last-minute crunches and leave time for thoughtful feedback, careful revisions, and better science.
- Flag slipping timelines early. Small adjustments made early are far easier than emergency fixes near a deadline.
- Christina plans weeks to months ahead and aims to finish at least a week before deadlines, and appreciates the same notice in return.
- The goal is sustainable progress, not constant urgency.
If our working styles differ substantially, we’ll discuss it directly in a one-on-one and set an intentional plan for working together effectively.
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