Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Wildlife Biotechnology & Biobanking Technician to join our Memphis Zoo Conservation and Research team to work in reproductive technologies and molecular biology to advance wildlife conservation.

As a core member of our lab, you will manage our biomaterial repository (biobank), conduct biobanking and reproductive research, and assist with processing and extraction of samples for routine molecular assays for qPCR disease testing and enzyme immunoassay to assist with data-driven animal management. This position reports directly to the Senior Conservation Biologist and offers a unique opportunity to apply cutting-edge biotechnology directly to endangered species preservation.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assist with planning and execution of conservation and biobanking research projects, for biobanking genetics of Southeastern endangered snakes and other species as well as coordinate opportunistic biobanking collections during routine physicals exams and post-mortem rescue of the zoo’s animals.
• Assist with in situ conservation and research efforts, including multi-day trips to Louisiana, Florida, and Mississippi to collect samples from wild-collected snakes for biobanking, data curation and processing, etc.
• Assist with ex situ conservation and research efforts, including but not limited to assisting with captive-breeding, running laboratory assays, training others to collect samples.

Key Responsibilities

Biobanking & Repository Management

• Preserve and catalog diverse biological samples (e.g., tissue, blood, gametes, and cells) from wildlife species.
• Maintain cryopreservation equipment (liquid nitrogen tanks, ultra-low freezers) and manage digital inventory database systems.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality control, biosafety protocols, and sample tracking standards.
• Travel with researchers for collection and biobanking samples at other Zoos and facilities

Reproductive Research & Biotechnology

• Assist in assisted reproductive technology (ART) research, including semen collection techniques, semen analysis, gamete processing, and cryopreservation protocols.
• Prepare media, reagents, and specialized equipment for reproductive physiology experiments.
• Support endocrine monitoring initiatives by performing routine fecal hormone extractions and enzyme immunoassays (EIAs).
• Monitor and document experimental outcomes with high precision.

Molecular Biology Support

• Perform routine DNA/RNA extractions from a variety of challenging wildlife tissue types.
• Run qPCR/PCR assays for disease screening for heard/colony health monitoring and conservation initiatives

Laboratory Operations & Collaboration

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment in coordination with the Lab Manager.
• Work with lab manager to maintain laboratory instrumentation.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including veterinarians, animal care teams, and external conservation partners.
• Assist with preparations of permit applications and reports.
• Contribute to scientific manuscripts.
• Mentor students and volunteers.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, safe, and encouraging professional environment.
• Perform various duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility: Students, interns, and volunteers may be the supervisory responsibility of this position.

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Conservation Biologist.

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Wildlife Science, Molecular Biology, Reproductive Physiology, Animal Science or a closely related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years of hands-on laboratory experience (academic or professional).
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong record of use and knowledge of reproductive biology techniques (e.g., microscopy, gamete handling)
  • Experience with semen analysis (including CASA, flow cytometry, staining techniques) and cryopreservation technique
  • Experience with basic lab techniques and equipment
  • Familiarity with sterile techniques and basic liquid handling.

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in Biology, Wildlife Science, Molecular Biology, Reproductive Physiology, Animal Science or a closely related field.
• Knowledge of reproductive biology techniques (e.g., microscopy, gamete handling).
• Familiarity with computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA).
• Experience with immunoassays and sample extractions.
• Experience with DNA/RNA extraction and qPCR/PCR setup

Attributes:

• Exceptional organizational skills, meticulous record-keeping, and a strong commitment to wildlife conservation.
• Record of effectively communicating conservation and research efforts, goals, and accomplishments to the public.
• Record of peer-reviewed publications and/or conference presentations.
• Proficient in MS office suite and R or other programs for statistical analysis

Other Requirements:

• Authorized now to work in the U.S. for any employer.
• Valid driver's license.
• Proof of current automobile insurance.
• Clear driving record.
• Clear background check.
• Clear drug screening.
• Clear TB screening.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:  This is a full-time position that works up to 40 hrs per week and may require weekend and holiday work. A mixture of travel, fieldwork, lab work, and administration is to be expected.

Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, chemicals and vibration.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet while in the office, or moderately loud while on Zoo grounds.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Starting Date: December 15, 2025. Negotiable within limits.