Biotechnology Exhibit Researcher-CONTRACT

Job Description

Job Description

Project Overview:

The Museum of Life and Science received funding from the Durham County 2022 Bond to create new exhibits on Climate & Sustainability and Biotechnology. The climate exhibit, “From Here On: Shaping Our Future” opened in April 2026. The Museum seeks an experienced researcher to join the Biotechnology exhibit team as we finish concept development and move to prototyping, design development, and fabrication. We anticipate a fall 2027 opening.

Position Overview:

This contract position will research emerging trends, breakthroughs, and social histories of biotechnology; collaborate with industry and academic partners; and help translate complex scientific concepts into an engaging, accessible exhibit opening Fall 2027. The position will partner with the Museum’s Exhibit Development and Education & Engagement teams to design, implement, and evaluate exhibit prototypes and programs that directly support exhibit content.

The Biotechnology Exhibit Researcher must possess strong research skills, a solid understanding of biotechnology and related life sciences, and the ability to translate complex topics into simple language and hands-on experiences for informal science education settings. By the conclusion of the contract, coinciding with the installation of the exhibit, the Biotechnology Exhibit Researcher will have:

• Produced comprehensive research documents supporting exhibition development
• Contributed to the creation of exhibit narratives and experiences
• Produced and evaluated exhibit prototypes and educational programming
• Compiled source materials, references, and expert contacts
• Produced concise, accurate exhibit copy written at or below a 5th grade reading level
• Ensured the scientific accuracy of exhibition components including text, graphics, and multi-media pieces

Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth research on biotechnology topics, such as:
  • Genetic engineering
  • Pharmaceutical development
  • Synthetic biology
  • Material sciences
  • Agricultural biotechnology
  • Bioethics and regulatory issues
  • Social history and indigenous practices
• Evaluate scientific literature, industry reports, government publications, and other authoritative sources
• Identify scientific discoveries, historical milestones, artifacts, and case studies suitable for exhibition
• Prepare research summaries and topic overviews for the Exhibit Development team and other Museum stakeholders
• Assist in developing exhibit narratives, interpretive text, multimedia content, and educational materials
• Verify scientific accuracy and relevancy
• Actively engage and participate in project meetings
• Create and maintain organized research files and documentation throughout the project lifecycle
• Limited travel to research institutions, conferences, museums, or other partner organizations as required

Qualifications:

Required

Preferred

• 4-year degree from accredited university or institution
• Strong educational background in science, education, or museum studies
• Demonstrated interest in contemporary biotechnology
• Excellent research and writing skills 
• Proven experience interviewing researchers and subject-matter experts
• Ability to synthesize complex scientific information for non-specialist audiences
• Strong organizational and project management abilities
• Proficiency with academic databases, scientific literature searches, and citation management tools
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment

• Advanced education in Biotech, Science, or Education
• Experience working in museums or science centers
• Experience creating education programs for children, school groups, and multi-generational audiences
• Experience developing exhibit content, educational programming, or other science communication materials

Compensation:  Commensurate with experience and qualifications