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Data Annotation Biology Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

... annotation, comparative genomics, phylogenetic analysis, and functional characterization ... data-management practices for large biological datasets. * Analyze, interpret, visualize, and ...

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Data Annotation Biology information

What is data annotation in biology?

Data annotation in biology involves labeling or tagging biological data—such as images, gene sequences, or medical records—with relevant information to make it useful for research and machine learning. Annotators may identify specific features, mark regions of interest, or classify data according to biological characteristics. This work is crucial for training artificial intelligence systems to recognize patterns, make predictions, and automate analyses in biological research. Annotated datasets help improve the accuracy and reliability of computational models in genomics, microscopy, drug discovery, and more.

What are the unique challenges faced by data annotators working with biological datasets, and how can they be addressed?

Data annotators in biology often encounter challenges such as dealing with complex, high-dimensional data (like gene sequences or microscopy images) and the need for a deep understanding of biological terminology and context. Errors in annotation can significantly impact downstream research or machine learning models, so maintaining accuracy is crucial. Collaborating closely with biologists and domain experts helps ensure consistency and correctness, while ongoing training and clear annotation guidelines help address ambiguities. Staying up-to-date with evolving biological standards and tools is also essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data annotation biology specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Annotation Biology specialist, you need a solid background in biological sciences, attention to detail, and experience handling scientific datasets, often supported by a degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with annotation tools, bioinformatics databases, and software such as BLAST or Ensembl is typically required, alongside knowledge of data management systems. Strong analytical thinking, precision, and good communication skills help you interpret complex biological data and collaborate effectively with researchers. These skills ensure the accuracy and utility of annotated datasets, which are critical for advancing biological research and data-driven discoveries.

What is the difference between Data Annotation Biology vs Data Labeling Specialist?

AspectData Annotation BiologyData Labeling Specialist
Required CredentialsBiology degree or related certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, training in labeling tools
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, research settings, or remoteOffice, remote, or data centers
Industry UsageBiotech, healthcare, researchTech, AI, machine learning
Job FocusAnnotating biological data, images, and sequencesLabeling various data types for AI models

Data Annotation Biology involves annotating biological data, often requiring a background in biology, while Data Labeling Specialists focus on labeling diverse data types for AI applications, with less emphasis on biological expertise. Both roles are essential in data preparation but serve different industry needs.

What are popular job titles related to Data Annotation Biology jobs in Illinois?

For Data Annotation Biology jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Data Annotation Biology jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Annotation Biology jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Data Annotation Biology job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution.

Research Technician - Project Technical Resources (Temp-to-Hire)

Janelia Research Campus

Campus, IL • On-site

$18.40 - $23.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders innovate research practices and technologies to solve biology's deepest mysteries. HHMI launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually enriching environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work. We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community.

About the Role:

ThePTR-BioImageAnalysis team withinProject Technical Resources(PTR)is seekingthreefull-timetechnicianswho want to engage in a variety ofannotation and image analysisprojects. This will include segmentation of 3D electron microscopydatasetsorlightsheetimages of expanded tissues, cell tracking in 4D light microscopy videos, and annotation offish behavior.The combination of projects and emphasis may change over time, requiring agile adaptation tothe specificrequirements. Annotations will typically serve as ground truth forautomatedimage processingpipelinesthat are beingestablishedin the context of AI@HHMI projects.Technicians willoftenbe involved in at least two different projects. This job is ideal for somebody who likes to work with images and enjoys manual annotations/drawing; it is not suited for someone who wishes to develop computational pipelines.

Temp-to-hire applicants will be trained in all required techniques upon starting work. After training, technicianswillwork under supervision by theteam'smanager and/orscientific project lead, collaborating with other team members, labs/project teams, and support groups.Please note: This is a 2-month temporary position with the potential to be extended or become permanent, dependent on successful training.Applicants withsignificantprior experience in relevant work may be considered for immediate HHMI employment.

What We Provide:

  • Gain research experience in a collaborative and supportive research environment.

  • A diverse team looking forward to exploring how your unique background, talents, and interests could contribute toPTRsability to support science at Janelia.

What You'll Do:

  • Gain an in-depth knowledge of using commercial and custom annotation software

  • Good spatial visualization skills and hand-eye coordination.

  • Collect relevant data from multidimensional images and videos

  • Review/correct automatically or manually generated annotations

  • Provide feedback about image quality and/or software performance

  • Provide feedback on annotation challenges and report biological observations

  • Perform computer automated analysis and quality control on large data sets

  • Perform preparative workforexperimentsor otherroutine lab chores asrequired

What You Bring:

  • Bachelor Degree or AssociateDegree with equivalent experience in biology, biomedical engineering, or computer science

  • Demonstratedproficiencywith computers

  • Work experience in a team-oriented environment and skills to be a good team-player

  • Interest in engaging in ground-breaking research in a fast-paced and dynamic environment

  • Good organizational skills

  • Excellent interpersonal skills to communicate efficiently with collaborators

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Good color vision, ability to visualize in 3D, ability to sit for several hours at a computer or microscope (with breaks), fine motor skills.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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Hiring Pay Range

Research Technician I (hourly): $18.40 - $23.03

Research Technician II (salary): $45,760.00 - $57,200.00

The posted range reflects HHMI's good faith estimate of the anticipated hiring salary range for this role at the time of posting. Actual hiring compensation is determined by a candidate's qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.