Biological Database Manager
A professional responsible for managing databases that store and organize biological and genetic data, often used in research and medical contexts.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Biological Database Manager
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
This role involves overseeing the creation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of databases that store biological information. The Biological Database Manager will work closely with biologists and data scientists to ensure that data is organized, accessible, and secure.
Required Skills
- Database management
- SQL programming
- Data analysis
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Basic knowledge of bioinformatics tools
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Understanding of biology and biological terminology.
- Experience with database management software and SQL.
- Familiarity with data privacy practices and legislation.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Responsibilities
- Assist in the development and maintenance of biological databases.
- Collaborate with biologists to ensure the database meets research needs.
- Implement data security measures to protect sensitive information.
- Perform regular backups and ensure data integrity.
- Troubleshoot and resolve database issues and malfunctions.
- Provide technical support to database users.
- Keep abreast of developments in database management and bioinformatics.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Biological Database Manager is responsible for the oversight and maintenance of databases that compile biological data. This role involves ensuring data integrity, improving database structures, and facilitating access for research and analysis purposes.
Required Skills
- Proficient in SQL and other database query languages.
- Experience with database scripting and automation tools.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks.
- Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, R, or Perl for data manipulation and analysis.
- Understanding of bioinformatics tools and resources.
Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, or a related field.
- At least 2 years of experience managing biological databases or related fields.
- Experience with database management systems (DBMS) such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, or Oracle.
- Understanding of biological data types, such as genetic, proteomic, or ecological datasets.
- Familiarity with data modeling and design principles specific to biological data.
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve database issues.
- Knowledge of relevant legal and regulatory database compliance requirements.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain biological databases, ensuring data accuracy and integrity.
- Collaborate with biologists and researchers to understand their data requirements and provide support.
- Implement data models, database designs, data access, and table maintenance codes.
- Ensure database performance optimization through monitoring and tuning.
- Manage permissions and access to the database for different users.
- Participate in the design and development of new databases to meet evolving project needs.
- Ensure compliance with data security and privacy regulations.
- Provide training and support to users on database access and utilization.
- Collaborate with ICT staff to plan and implement database upgrades and backups.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Biological Database Manager, you will be responsible for managing and overseeing the development, maintenance, and enhancement of biological databases. You will ensure data integrity, security, and accessibility, while providing expert guidance to a team of database professionals and supporting researchers in the biological sciences.
Required Skills
- Excellent leadership and project management skills.
- Proficiency in database development, query optimization, and performance tuning.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in a biological data context.
- Knowledge of bioinformatics tools and software, such as BLAST, BioPython, or R for statistical computing.
- Effective communication skills, with the ability to present complex data concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
- Adaptability and eagerness to learn and implement new database technologies and methodologies.
- A meticulous eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy in data management.
Qualifications
- Master's degree or Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience managing biological databases or a related area in a senior capacity.
- Proven experience with database management systems such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB.
- Strong understanding of biological data formats and standards like FASTA, GenBank, and EMBL.
- Familiarity with relevant legal and ethical guidelines pertaining to biological data handling, such as HIPAA and GDPR.
- Experience with cloud computing services and database hosting platforms, such as AWS or Microsoft Azure.
- Proven track record of managing and delivering complex database projects on time and within budget.
Responsibilities
- Lead and supervise a team of database administrators and data scientists in the creation and management of biological databases.
- Oversee the storage, backup, and security protocols for biological data to ensure compliance with privacy laws and scientific standards.
- Work closely with research teams to understand their data requirements and implement database solutions that meet their needs.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in bioinformatics and database technology and implement new features and functionalities accordingly.
- Ensure the high availability and reliability of databases through proactive monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance tuning.
- Develop and manage a data governance framework that defines roles, responsibilities, and data standards to ensure the quality and consistency of data across the organization.
- Coordinate with IT departments and external vendors to align database infrastructure with organizational needs and objectives.
- Provide training and support to researchers for optimal use of databases and related tools.
- Prepare reports and analytics by extracting insights from complex biological data to inform decision-making and strategy development.
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