Data Management Specialist

Ontario University Athletics; Guelph; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Guelph is seeking a Data Management Specialist to enhance biodiversity research through effective data support. The role involves processing datasets, database management, and ensuring data quality. Ideal candidates should possess strong analytical skills and proficiency in data management tools, including SQL and Excel. This temporary, full-time position provides opportunities for career growth and is set in a collaborative environment dedicated to scientific excellence.

Benefits

Opportunities for career growth

Collaborative work environment

Commitment to inclusivity and innovation

Qualifications

• Two-year diploma in a relevant field or equivalent experience; Bachelor's or Master's preferred.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data management.

Responsibilities

• Process and validate large datasets for accuracy.
• Manage and curate databases to resolve data inconsistencies.
• Support users with data standards and best practices.

Skills

Analytical abilities

Organizational skills

Problem-solving abilities

Attention to detail

Written communication

Verbal communication

Microsoft Excel

Data management experience

Education

Two-year Diploma in Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Environmental Science, or Computer Science

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree preferred

Tools

SQL

R

Python

Power BI

Tableau

Job description

Primary Category Page: Staff and Management

Division: College of Biological Science

Requisition ID: 1992

Department: Centre for Biodiversity Genomics

Temporary full-time from 01/05/2026 to 01/04/2027.

Contract has a 1-year term and is renewable based on funding availability and project needs.

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.

General Purpose

The Centre for Biodiversity Genomics (CBG), at the University of Guelph, is a world‑leading research centre dedicated to advancing global biodiversity science through DNA analysis. Home to the world’s largest COI DNA reference library, CBG develops and applies DNA‑based tools for species identification, classification, and conservation with significant implications for biodiversity monitoring, food safety, environmental protection, and public health initiatives. Our diverse team of scientists, technologists, AI experts, and data specialists share a common mission: to accelerate DNA‑based species identification and empower the global biodiversity community through innovation, data excellence, and collaboration.

We are seeking a Data Management Specialist to join our informatics team. In this hands‑on role, you will be responsible for supporting international researchers with data submission, validation, and analysis across BOLD (Barcode of Life Data System) and related platforms.

This position is ideal for a detail‑oriented, data‑driven professional passionate about biodiversity, database integrity, and research support. You’ll help ensure high‑quality data, maintain and enhance one of the world’s leading biodiversity data infrastructures and support process improvement initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Process and validate large datasets; perform quality assurance and quality control checks to ensure accuracy and consistency.
• Database management and curation – identify and resolve taxonomic, geographic, and general data inconsistencies.
• Provide timely, informative support to users; communicate data standards, policies, and best practices.
• Create dashboards, charts, and reports to communicate trends, QA/QC metrics, and analytical outcomes.
• Collect, analyze, and visualize key performance indicators to track and monitor system performance.
• Conduct literature and database mining, statistical analyses, and reporting to support biodiversity research.
• Communicate with members of the academic research community about data management processes and policies, support training initiatives and workshops.
• Participate in regular meetings with the Data Management Team to review progress, share insights, and align on goals.

Requirements

• Two‑year Diploma in Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Environmental Science, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience); Bachelor’s or Master’s degree is preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving abilities with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, for data handling and visualization.
• Experience with large data management, QA/QC, and data curation.

  Assets

  • Knowledge of SQL for data analysis and transformation.
  • Familiarity with statistical and visualization tools such as R, Python, Power BI, or Tableau.
  • Understanding of taxonomy, biodiversity data, and/or DNA barcoding concepts.
  • Experience in user support or customer service roles.
  • Strong documentation and KPI‑tracking skills to support process evaluation and improvement.

  What we offer:

  • The opportunity to work at the interface of cutting‑edge science, data management, and software innovation in a collaborative environment.
  • Opportunities for career growth and leadership development within the data management team.
  • The potential to collaborate with or join startup companies incubated by the CBG.
  • A workplace committed to inclusivity, innovation, and scientific excellence.

  At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our institution.

  Posting Date: 12/08/2025

  Close Date: 12/22/2025