Bioinformatics & Research Technician / Research Associate (Full Time)
About The Position
The Memphis Zoo is seeking a motivated and creative Bioinformatics & Research Technician / Research Associate for a one-year appointment focused on applying data science, bioinformatics, and quantitative methods to zoo data and increasing connectivity between zoo and museum biodiversity research. This position will collaborate closely with the Arctos Consortium to support the establishment and advancement of an accessible database for the Memphis Zoo Genome Resource Bank. This position will contribute to a project focused on increasing the accessibility, interoperability, and long-term impact of biological collections and cryopreserved samples by modernizing biobank data infrastructure and integrating zoo collections into global biodiversity information networks. Working at the interface of museum science, biodiversity informatics, conservation biology, and data management, the successful candidate will help develop scalable systems that support scientific discovery, species conservation, and cross-institutional collaboration.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computer Science, Information Science, Zoo/Museum Studies, or a related field.
- Experience working with structured datasets and relational databases.
- Proficiency in at least one analytical or scripting language (Python, R, SQL, or equivalent).
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage complex records.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- 21 years or older.
- Clear background check.
- Clear drug screening.
- Clear TB screening.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Clear MVR screening.
- Proof of current automobile insurance.
- Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with biodiversity, museum, biobank, genomic, or collections datasets.
- Familiarity with Arctos collection management systems and metadata standards.
- Knowledge of FAIR Data Principles and/or Darwin Core standards.
- Experience with database migration, data pipelines, or web-based data platforms.
- Interest in open science and collaborative data infrastructure.
Responsibilities
- Organize, curate, clean, and standardize biological collections and cryobank metadata.
- Assist with migration of legacy sample records into Arctos.
- Develop and maintain workflows for data entry, validation, curation, and long-term data stewardship.
- Apply biodiversity informatics standards, including Darwin Core and FAIR data practices.
- Support implementation of barcode-based sample and storage tracking systems.
- Assist with management and documentation of cryopreserved sample inventories.
- Contribute to cross-institutional data integration of collection records with biodiversity aggregators and data-sharing platforms.
- Collaborate in development and testing of a public-facing database portal.
- Assist with analysis and reporting of database usage, accessibility, and project outcomes.
- Develop and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for physical collection curation, sample management, and associated database workflows.
- Contribute to preparation of presentations, protocols, training materials, and dissemination activities.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits and employee perks package
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
