Biological Data Curator for BioSample Metadata

Computercraft is seeking a Biological Data Curator to support the BioSample database at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), part of the National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland.

Help researchers describe biological samples accurately so their data can be understood and reused. BioSample contains contextual metadata for samples associated with NCBI resources, including the Sequence Read Archive (SRA) and GenBank. You will review submissions from individual laboratories and large sequencing projects; resolve metadata and taxonomy questions; support database users; and help improve how sample information is submitted, validated, and maintained.

This position requires working onsite five days per week at the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland.

Job Responsibilities

• Review contextual metadata in BioSample submissions for completeness, consistency, and quality.
• Review and clarify taxonomic names and work with submitters to resolve questions about sample descriptions.
• Perform curation activities needed to maintain accurate, useful BioSample records.
• Manage help desk requests from submitters and database users, providing clear scientific guidance and resolving data questions.
• Contribute scientific input to the design and testing of BioSample submission and curation interfaces.
• Help improve data standards, validation procedures, and workflows across the sample data lifecycle.
• Evaluate both individual records and the broader effects of curation decisions on database structure, workflows, and related resources.
• Collaborate with colleagues across disciplines and provide backup curation support for the BioProject database.

Required Skills and Experience

• Ph.D. in molecular biology or a related field, or a master’s degree in molecular biology or a related field with relevant experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clarify scientific information for submitters and users.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong attention to detail and sound scientific judgment, including consideration of the broader effects of curation decisions.
• Ability to evaluate biological data in the context of database structure, workflows, and the sample data lifecycle.
• Ability to obtain Public Trust Clearance.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Experience with biological databases, data curation, or large-scale data management workflows.
• Experience working with data standards.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn evolving technologies and automated or technology-assisted workflows.

Who May Be a Good Fit
This role may appeal to a scientist who enjoys organizing biological information, solving metadata problems, and helping researchers submit useful data. Strong candidates will combine careful record review with an interest in improving the standards and workflows that support scientific databases.

Compensation and Benefits
The anticipated salary range for this position is $95,000–$115,000 annually. The starting salary within this range will be based on relevant experience, qualifications, and skills.

 

Computercraft offers an excellent benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and disability and life insurance; a 401(k) plan with matching; paid leave starting at 128 hours/year for the first 3 years of employment; and 11 paid holidays. We also offer the opportunity for a positive work–life balance with a standard 40-hour work week and the chance to work alongside a team of highly accomplished professionals.

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