Job Summary:
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 role involves restructuring the Memphis Zoo Genome Resource Bank database and integrating zoo collections into global biodiversity information networks.
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.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 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.
Preferred:
• 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.
Company:
Memphis Zoo is a non-profit wildlife adventure organization that represents more than 500 different species. Founded in 1906, the company is headquartered in Memphis, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.