Data Science & Biodiversity Informatics Research Technician (Full Time, One-Year)

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.

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/Primary 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.

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
• Oral and written communication
• 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.

Starting Date

August 1, 2026.

Position Type

This is a full-time, one-year, salary position. Position is based in Memphis, Tennessee. This position is considered exempt under the federal and state wage and hour laws.  

Compensation

$50,000 annually.