Biobank Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of scientific advancement, the role of biobank managers has become increasingly critical.

As biobanking continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, maintain, and safeguard our biorepositories grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a biobank manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricate world of biobanking,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we provide a customizable biobank manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Biobank Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Biobank Managers are responsible for overseeing the collection, processing, and storage of biological samples.

They also ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulations related to the handling and storing of biological samples.

Biobank Managers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement protocols for the collection, processing, and storage of biological samples
• Ensure compliance with institutional, local, and national ethical guidelines and regulations
• Oversee and supervise the activities of biobank staff
• Maintain quality control and quality assurance procedures to ensure the integrity of the samples
• Manage the storage and retrieval of samples, ensuring the long-term viability and accessibility of samples
• Facilitate access to the biobank’s samples and data for research purposes, in line with ethical guidelines and consent procedures
• Plan and manage the biobank budget
• Ensure the security, data protection and confidentiality of the biobank’s data
• Implement and update the biobank’s data management system, ensuring efficient tracking and tracing of samples
• Communicate with other researchers and stakeholders about the biobank’s services and policies

 

Biobank Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly experienced and organized Biobank Manager to oversee our biological specimen repository.

In this role, you will be responsible for the overall management of our biobank, including collection, processing, storage, and distribution of biological samples.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in life sciences, project management, as well as an understanding of the regulatory and ethical issues surrounding biobanking.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the biobank, including the collection, processing, storage, and distribution of biological samples.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the biobank.
• Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory standards.
• Manage biobank staff and provide training as necessary.
• Work with researchers to coordinate sample requests and distribution.
• Oversee the maintenance and calibration of biobank equipment.
• Manage the biobank budget and resources.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure data quality and integrity.
• Stay updated with latest trends and technologies in biobanking.

 

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a Biobank Manager or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of biobanking regulations and ethical guidelines.
• Experience with biobanking software and database management.
• Excellent managerial and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office and data analysis software.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Biobank Manager
• Work Environment: Laboratory setting with some office work. Some travel may be required for scientific meetings or collaborations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Biobank Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $89,000 minimum to $152,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Biobank Manager Do?

Biobank Managers oversee the operations of biobanks which are repositories for storing biological samples used in scientific research.

They are typically employed by medical institutions, universities, or research organizations.

Their primary responsibility is to manage the collection, processing, and distribution of biological samples.

This involves the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure the samples are collected ethically and stored under the appropriate conditions to maintain their integrity.

Biobank Managers also work closely with researchers, providing them with access to the samples they need for their studies.

They may also work with clinicians to obtain samples from patients.

In addition, they are responsible for the accurate cataloging and tracking of all samples in the biobank.

This includes maintaining a database with detailed information about each sample, such as its source, the conditions under which it was stored, and any subsequent usage.

Biobank Managers are also responsible for ensuring the biobank meets all legal and ethical regulations related to the collection, storage, and use of biological samples.

This includes obtaining informed consent from donors and ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of their personal information.

Biobank Managers are also typically involved in budgeting and financial management, staff training and supervision, and equipment maintenance and purchasing.

They may also participate in research projects or studies related to biobanking.

 

Biobank Manager Qualifications and Skills

Biobank Managers possess a blend of technical expertise, managerial acumen, and knowledge of the biotech field.

The necessary skills and qualifications include:

• Strong understanding of biobanking procedures, biological sample handling, storage and tracking, along with knowledge of related ethical, legal and social issues.
• Experience with biobank database management and familiarity with the latest biobanking software and technologies.
• Exceptional organizational skills for managing the biobank inventory, and ensuring regulatory compliance in terms of sample acquisition, storage and distribution.
• Effective communication skills to liaise with scientists, researchers, and other stakeholders, and to ensure clear understanding of sample requirements and biobank protocols.
• Leadership and team management skills for overseeing the biobank staff and ensuring smooth operations.
• Problem-solving abilities to address challenges related to sample management, storage conditions, and other technical issues that may arise.
• An understanding of quality assurance and quality control principles in relation to biobanking.
• Ability to stay informed about advancements in biobanking and integrate new technologies and procedures into the biobank’s operations.

 

Biobank Manager Experience Requirements

Biobank Managers typically have a background in the life sciences, with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field being a common prerequisite.

Candidates generally require at least 3 to 5 years of experience in biobanking, clinical research, or a related field.

This professional experience should include practical, hands-on work with sample storage and handling, database management, and quality control procedures.

Biobank Managers often have experience in lab settings, whether that be in academia, industry, or healthcare.

They should be comfortable with lab protocols and have a strong understanding of the ethical issues surrounding sample storage and use.

Those with 5+ years of experience in a biobanking environment may be ready for managerial responsibilities.

Leadership experience, such as overseeing a team or heading a project, is often required for this role.

Additionally, candidates may benefit from experience with specific biobank software, as well as a working knowledge of regulatory standards for biobanks.

Some roles may also require prior experience in fundraising or grant writing to secure funding for the biobank.

 

Biobank Manager Education and Training Requirements

Biobank Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, bioinformatics, or a related field.

In addition to this, they must possess a thorough understanding of the principles of biological sample collection, storage, and distribution.

Knowledge of medical ethics, privacy laws and regulations, and data management is also necessary for this role.

Many positions require a master’s degree or PhD in life sciences, healthcare management, or a related discipline.

This advanced education provides a deeper understanding of the scientific principles and administrative procedures involved in biobanking.

Certification in Biobank management or a related field is often preferred by employers.

Some may also require that Biobank Managers have completed an internship or have prior experience in a laboratory or clinical setting.

Continuing education is important in this field due to advancements in technology and evolving ethical considerations.

As such, Biobank Managers are often expected to participate in professional development opportunities, such as seminars, workshops, and additional coursework.

They also need strong managerial skills and experience, as they have to oversee the entire operations of the Biobank, including staff management, budgeting, and protocol development.

 

Biobank Manager Salary Expectations

A Biobank Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate based on factors such as level of education, years of experience in the field, and the location of the employing company.

 

Biobank Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Biobank Manager need?

Biobank Managers need exceptional organizational and management skills due to the critical nature of their work.

They should have a deep understanding of biological specimen handling, storage, and regulatory compliance.

Additionally, they must possess excellent communication skills to interact with researchers, technicians, and other stakeholders.

Knowledge in data management and proficiency in using related IT systems is also vital.

 

Do Biobank Managers need a degree?

Yes, Biobank Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in a life science discipline like biology, genetics, or biochemistry.

Many Biobank Managers also hold advanced degrees such as a Master’s or Ph.D. in a related field.

Additionally, experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting is often necessary.

 

What should you look for in a Biobank Manager’s resume?

In a Biobank Manager’s resume, look for a strong educational background in life sciences and proven experience in a biobanking or similar environment.

They should have practical knowledge of sample collection, storage, handling, and distribution.

Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and understanding of legal and ethical issues related to biobanking are also crucial.

Leadership skills and experience in managing a team are desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Biobank Manager?

A good Biobank Manager has a strong understanding of scientific concepts, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

They should have strong ethical standards to handle sensitive biological materials and patient data.

A good Biobank Manager also has strong communication skills to interact with a diverse range of stakeholders, including scientists, medical professionals, and regulatory authorities.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Biobank Manager?

The recruitment of a Biobank Manager can be challenging due to the unique combination of skills required.

The role demands a blend of scientific knowledge, laboratory management, data management skills, and understanding of legal and ethical issues related to biobanking.

Hence, finding a candidate with the right balance of these skills can be a challenging task.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we delved into the details of what it really means to be a Biobank Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about managing a collection of biological samples.

It’s about orchestrating a vital resource in medical research and advancing the cause of health, one sample at a time.

With our handy Biobank Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to make your move.

But why stop here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every biological sample is a part of the larger endeavor.

Let’s advance health and medical research. Together.

How to Become a Biobank Manager (Complete Guide)

Beyond the Edge: The Reality of Life in High-Stress Jobs!

Curiously Employed: The Strangest Jobs on the Market

Steady as She Goes: Recession-Proof Jobs for a Secure Future

Risky Rewards: The Highs and Lows of Working in Hazardous Fields