Biocurator job at Xenbase

Biocuration Analyst position at Xenbase, the Xenopus Model Organism Knowledgebase

Xenbase (www.xenbase.org) is the online Xenopus bioinformatics and genomics resources used by biomedical researchers worldwide and is funded by the NIH/ NICHD. Xenopus is a major model for studying genomics, cell and developmental biology and modeling human disease. Xenbase is seeking a Biocurator Analyst to join the Xenbase team at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati OH USA (PI: Dr. Aaron Zorn). This position offers an intellectually challenging job involving diverse tasks, including curation of published research for gene expression, phenotypes and disease models, experiments, reagents and gene function. As part of the Xenbase team the Biocuration Analyst will also work with our database administrators and software developers to improve data curation, and optimize website functionality. Biocurators interact with the research community at national/international conferences and workshops, work with curation teams at other bioinformatic resources and contribute to Xenbase publications.

Job Description:

  • Curate genomic and biological data from scientific literature using computer readable ontologies and defined syntax including: gene expression, genes, transgenic and mutant lines, experimental, reagents, anatomy, genotype, phenotype, GO-CAMs (gene ontology) and models of human disease.
  • Metadata curation of transcriptomic and epigenetic high-throughput datasets.
  • Participate in genome annotation and gene nomenclature.
  • Contribute to ontology development.
  • Develop strategies to improve workflow, data curation, data display and website design.
  • Help identify and implement efficiencies. Maintain standard operating procedures.
  • Foster and maintain effective communications with the research community, other resources and institutions.
  • Co-author reports and publications and give presentations at national and international meetings and workshops.

Qualifications:

  • BSc+ 2 years’ experience, MSc or PhD degree in biocuration and/or biomedical research.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including excellent written and spoken English.
  • Robust evidence of documentation for code and workflows.
  • Self-motivated with excellent time management skills.
  • Show ability to work in a team and independently.

Preference will be given to an applicant with:

  • Experience with genomics, developmental or cell biology research, particularly Xenopus.
  • Experience with data wrangling and programming languages such Perl, Python or R.
  • Experience working with ontologies, biocuration and/or biological knowledgebases.

How to Apply:

Please submit your application by AUGUST 31st, 2023, to aaron.zorn@cchmc.org

with the following information:

  • A cover letter, including a statement of interest/purpose
  • CV/Resume.
  • Copy of your degree(s).
  • List 3 references/referees whom we may contact (please include their postal address, email, and phone number).

Salary and Start Date:

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Start date is negotiable but expected to be in the autumn/fall of 2023.

The successful applicants will be employees of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and will undergo background checks, orientation and a 6-month probationary period. Employees are required to receive an annual flu vaccination.

More information about working at Cincinnati Children’s (No. 1 Children’s Hospital in North America and one of the USA’s top-rated employers), and living in Cincinnati (a mid-western city with great people, neighborhoods, dining, performing arts, truly great parks, and a low cost of living) can be found here: Career Opportunities | Cincinnati Children's

The Xenbase Biocurator position is still open! We encourage anyone just finishing their Masters or PhD to apply. Biocuration is a rewarding academic career that’s an alternative to a postdoc or another higher degree. Contact us to find out more! xenbase@cchmc.org