Bioinformatics & Research Technician / Research Associate (Full Time)

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 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.

Essential Dates:

• This is a 1-year appointment.
• The application deadline is July 10, 2026. Late applicants will be considered until the position is filled.
• Application reviews will begin immediately.
• Anticipated start date for position is August 1, 2026.

Project Overview:

The successful candidate will support efforts to:

• Restructure and modernize the Memphis Zoo Genome Resource Bank (MZGRB) database.
• Migrate existing collection records into the Arctos Collections Management System.
• Standardize data using Darwin Core Data Standards and FAIR Data Principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable).
• Increase discoverability of biobank records through integration with global biodiversity infrastructure.
• Support development of a searchable, public-facing web portal for MZGRB collections.
• Establish workflows and best practices that can serve as a model for zoo and aquarium biobanking networks.

Essential Job Functions:

• 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.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• 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.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• 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.

Competencies:

• Data Normalization and Relational Database Concepts.
• Familiarity with Darwin Core (DwC) Data Standards, Biodiversity Data Aggregators, & FAIR Principles.
• Experience with Biological Specimen Data Migration & Bulkloading.
• Inventory Management & Barcoding Workflow Implementation.
• Critical Thinking and Analysis.
• Stress Management/Composure.
• Flexibility.
• Teamwork Orientation.

Supervisory Responsibility: Students and interns may be the supervisory responsibility of this position. 

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Curator of Research, Dr. Sinlan Poo.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time, one-year, salary position. Full-time salary positions are defined as positions scheduled to work approximately 40 hours a week. Scheduling is at the discretion of the manager.

This position is considered exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws. 

Scheduling Availability Requirements:

Position regularly requires flexible hours including weekdays, holidays, and weekends including early morning and daytime hours.

Work Environment:

While performing the duties of the job, the employee will primarily operate in a mixed work environment that includes both laboratory/office space and zoo grounds. Time will be split between indoor laboratory settings and outdoor or behind-the-scenes animal care areas.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

This position requires frequent sitting, moving, and standing, and may occasionally move or lift objects up to 20 pounds. Occasional reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and climbing ladders is required.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Other Requirements:

• 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.

Benefits & Perks

The Memphis Zoo has a comprehensive benefits and employee perks package. Please see our Memphis Zoo Careers page for details.  

EEOC and Inclusion Statement: 

The Memphis Zoo believes that human diversity is as important as the biodiversity we seek to conserve. World-class zoos are comprised of world-class team members representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We value a diverse workplace and strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and veterans to apply. 

The Memphis Zoo is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws. If you need to request any accommodations for the interview or hiring process, please let the Human Resources team (HR) know. HR can be contacted at hrteam@memphiszoo.org. 

The Memphis Zoo participates in E-Verify and is an EEO/ADA/Veteran employer.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment screening. Memphis Zoo is a drug-free workplace.

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.