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Undergraduates

Email to Express Interest

Undergraduate researchers gain hands-on experience in wine flavor chemistry through participation in active research projects. Students commit 10–15 hours per week to projects involving volatile extraction, mass spectrometry analysis, chemometric data processing, and sensory evaluation. Training develops technical expertise in GC–MS/MS, LC–MS/MS, sample preparation workflows, and data analysis while contributing to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Eligibility

  • Enrolled undergraduate student at UC Davis in good academic standing
  • Completed introductory coursework in chemistry
  • Minimum cumulative GPA 3.0
  • Available for consistent weekly schedule during academic quarters
  • Interest in analytical chemistry, flavor science, or wine chemistry research

Positions Available

  • Paid research assistant positions: hourly positions (10–15 hours/week) on funded research projects with stipend support
  • Academic credit research: enrollment in independent study courses for directed research under faculty supervision
  • Volunteer research experience: unpaid positions available for students exploring research interests before committing to paid or credit positions

Training & Professional Development

  • Training in GC–MS/MS, LC–MS/MS, and high-resolution mass spectrometry operation and data interpretation
  • Hands-on experience with solid-phase microextraction, liquid-liquid extraction, and sample preparation workflows
  • Direct mentorship from Dr. Chen, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers
  • Opportunities for co-authorship on peer-reviewed publications and presentations at regional or national conferences
  • Foundation for competitive graduate school applications or careers in analytical chemistry, flavor science, food chemistry, or wine industry

Example Research Projects

  • Quantification of smoke marker compounds in wildfire-exposed grapes and wines
  • Volatile profiling of regional wines to establish terroir signatures
  • Method validation for sulfur compound analysis in aged wines
  • Optimization of extraction protocols for aroma precursors
  • Data processing and chemometric analysis of large metabolomics datasets

Time Commitment

  • Academic year: 10–15 hours per week across 2–3 scheduled blocks during regular quarters
  • Summer research: part- or full-time positions (40 hours/week) available for intensive research experiences, typically 8–10 weeks
  • Minimum commitment: two consecutive academic quarters to complete meaningful project components

FAQ

  • Do I need prior research experience?
  • No. We provide comprehensive training starting from fundamental laboratory techniques. Enthusiasm and commitment are more important than prior experience.
  • Can I earn both credit and payment?
  • No. Positions are either paid hourly or for academic credit, not both simultaneously.
  • What happens if I need to reduce hours during midterms or finals?
  • We accommodate academic priorities.
  • Can international students apply?
  • Yes.

How to Apply

  • Email Dr. Chen [email protected] or click Email to Express Interest.
  • Application materials
    • Current CV including cumulative GPA, relevant coursework (chemistry, biology, statistics), and previous research or laboratory experience
    • Unofficial transcript showing completed chemistry courses
    • Research interest statement (250 to 300 words) describing:
      • Specific aspects of wine chemistry or analytical mass spectrometry that interest you
      • Relevant coursework or experiences that prepared you for this work
      • Career goals and how this research aligns with your objectives
    • Weekly availability (specific days/times) and preferred start quarter
  • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Program Information

  • Preferred Majors
    • Viticulture and Enology, Chemistry, Food Science, Biological Sciences, or related STEM majors. Students from other majors with strong chemistry backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
  • Pre-Viticulture and Enology Students
    • Research experience strengthens graduate school applications and provides exposure to analytical research careers in wine science.
  • Considering Graduate School?
    • Research experience with publication opportunities significantly strengthens applications to chemistry, food science, and viticulture graduate programs.
  • Interested in Viticulture and Enology?
    • Learn about the major or explore VEN courses
       

Bachelor of Science – Major in Viticulture and Enology