A Bioinformatics Lab Technician is a specialized technical professional who supports biological research by managing, analyzing, and interpreting large volumes of biological data—especially genetic, genomic, and proteomic information.
Rather than working at the laboratory bench full-time, bioinformatics technicians bridge wet-lab science and computational analysis, ensuring that raw biological data is processed into meaningful, actionable results. They are key players in projects such as genome sequencing, disease surveillance, agricultural breeding programs, and drug or vaccine development.
Industry Outlook
Employment Growth
Projected employment growth for bioinformatics tech roles is approximately 6% over the decade from 2023 to 2033. Similarly, the broader category of bioinformatics scientists is expected to grow 6%-8% over the same period according to O*NET and BLS.gov.
Industry Drivers
Demand is fueled by advances in genomic technologies, precision agriculture, and biosecurity monitoring. The increasing need to process large biological datasets—especially in pathogen surveillance, genetic research, and agricultural biotechnology—will sustain opportunities in both public and private sectors.
Salary Range
Wages typically range from $50,000–$75,000. Salaries may increase for those that work in more specialized areas (i.e. biomedical research, federal biosecurity programs).
Competencies Specific to Bioinformatics Lab Technicians
1. Data Analysis & Bioinformatics Applications
- Analyze and manipulate bioinformatics data using statistical software, machine learning, or data mining techniques.
- Conduct quality analyses of data inputs, results, and predictions.
- Enter, retrieve, and manage biological data (genomic, proteomic, structural, mutation, or expression databases).
- Package bioinformatics data for submission to public repositories.
- Participate in preparing reports and scientific publications.
2. Software Development & Database Management
- Develop, extend, or maintain applications, scripts, and web-based tools for database querying and analysis.
- Design and maintain searchable biological databases for storage, processing, and presentation of data.
- Implement error-checking procedures, user manuals, and documentation for database changes.
- Monitor and troubleshoot database performance, performing upgrades, repairs, or backups as needed.
- Test new or updated software/tools and provide feedback to developers.
3. Collaboration, Training & Research Support
- Confer with researchers, clinicians, or IT staff to identify data needs, programming requirements, and project timelines.
- Communicate with database users about changes, progress, and requirements.
- Train bioinformatics staff or researchers in database use and tools.
- Stay updated on emerging computational methods and technologies to support evolving research needs.
Industry Associations for Bioinformatics Lab Technicians
- International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB)
- American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA)
- ACM Special Interest Group on Bioinformatics (SIGBio)
- American Society of Agronomy (ASA)
- American Phytopathological Society (APS)
- Society for Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology (SIMB)
- American Biological Safety Association (ABSA International)
- American Society for Microbiology (ASM)
- International Society for Biocuration (ISB)
On-the-Job Training Guide
An on-the-job training guide for Bioinformatics Lab Technicians. can be used to design an apprenticeship program related this occupation or used as a tool to document employee progress during skill acquisition.
Competency Matrix
A competency matrix is a tool that outlines the key skills, knowledge, and abilities needed for success. By reviewing the matrix, you can better understand the expectations of a Bioinformatics Lab Technician.
