The Stanford Libraries seeks a full-time collaborative, dynamic, and innovative Biology Librarian who will provide outstanding research, instruction, and collection services to the Department of Biology and related departments and programs. As a member of an interdisciplinary team of science and engineering librarians, the Biology Librarian will provide direct support in the use of library materials, scholarly communication practices, and will play an active role in supporting the research lifecycle of data in their assigned disciplines.
The Libraries values are rooted in a commitment of mutual respect, the idea that every member of the staff has something to contribute, and that learning is constant. We seek a team member who is ready to share their skills and perspectives.
About the Position:
The Biology Librarian will be responsible for the development and delivery of outreach and instruction, serving as the primary liaison for biology. As the subject specialist for biology and related subjects, this position is responsible for the collection and management of materials related to biology and bioinformatics, including budgetary oversight. As part of the interdisciplinary team serving Stanford's STEM community, this position will further the use of best practices in reproducibility and rigor in the scientific disciplines on the campus. The Librarian will work closely with colleagues in Research Data Services (RDS) and Digital Library Systems and Services (DLSS) on data acquisition, management, and preservation. This position reports to the Assistant Director for the Science and Engineering Libraries.
Plans, develops, evaluates, and manages research collections in numerous biology disciplines, ecology, evolution, genetics, physiology, and behavior. Manages and expends one unrestricted fund and four endowed funds. Selects current and retrospective materials in all formats. Evaluates commercial software, data sources, and technology for purchase by the libraries in support of the programs of the department. Maintains close contact with faculty and students in the Department of Biology to ensure that library collections support current and future research and teaching programs.
Creates and actively manages web resources, which are on Drupal and LibGuide platforms. Seeks out new applications and software to keep the library up to date on Web technologies and their use in an information setting.
Provides reference, research assistance, and online search services in the biological sciences to students, faculty, and staff. Maintains contact with faculty, students, and staff in the department and develops outreach programs for these groups.
Provides instruction, through workshops and individual consultations, on biology and bioinformatics resources and materials, including methods and tools.
Responsible for identifying data that should be collected and archived locally, and for working with appropriate staff to develop the infrastructure for delivering these digital resources.
Collaborates with other subject specialists to ensure collections cover interdisciplinary areas that lie outside conventional subject boundaries.
Encourages and cultivates close relations with donors of funds and materials relating to biology and bioinformatics.
Contributes to planning, policies, and programs of the Science and Engineering Resource Group. Serves on committees and manages library projects as appropriate.
Coordinates with campus service providers outside of the Libraries to ensure successful research and teaching practices within the Department of Biology.
Responsible for identifying resources for the Libraries' internal development of digital resources and for identifying externally produced digital resources.
Potentially provides instruction in one or more software classes such as R, MATLAB, Python, etc.
* - Other duties may also be assigned. The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education and Experience:
Experience in research libraries and the research environment, as well as a subject background in biology (biochemistry, cell biology, conservation biology, microbiology, etc.) or a life science-related field are required. Strongly desire an advanced subject degree and/or a master's degree from an ALA-accredited library and information science school or the equivalent in training and experience in understanding and providing information to a user population.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Understanding of the research and trends covered by the faculty, researchers, and students in the relevant subject disciplines covered by the Department of Biology.
Knowledge of relevant aspects of library operations including understanding of contemporary library practices, trends, and emerging technologies.
Evidence of strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a wide variety of people including faculty, students, and staff. Ability to perform effectively in and contribute successfully to a diverse, multicultural workplace environment is required.
Effective problem solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
Demonstrated broad knowledge of library discovery environments, office automation software, and online resources. Ability to evaluate online information products and services is strongly desired.
Strong understanding of computers and data are required.
Ability to quickly learn and use print and online tools and resources and in area of specialization.
Evidence of strong verbal and written communication skills.
Other Relevant Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities May Include:
Experience in the use of high-level programming languages such as R, Python, or MatLab.
Demonstrated information seeking skills, including database and Internet searching, and familiarity with biological sciences resources in digital formats.
Strong analytical and organizational skills. Ability to manage time and multiple projects in a complex, changing environment with a positive, flexible, creative, and innovative attitude.
For consideration at the Librarian 3 rank:
Five or more years of experience in biology research, academic library, or related setting with evidence of capacity to work at a higher level of responsibility for a combination of education and relevant experience.
Demonstrated potential to make professional accomplishments relevant to the responsibilities of this position. These may include scholarly publications, teaching, and library-related publications and presentations.
Physical Requirements*:
Constantly sit, perform desk-based computer tasks.
Frequently twist/bend/stoop/squat, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, sort/file paperwork or parts, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds.
Occasionally stand/walk, reach/work above shoulders, writing by hand, kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds, or other).
Rarely use a telephone, operate hand controls.
Must be able to push and maneuver a fully loaded cart weighing up to 650 pounds that requires an initial push force up to 50 pounds.
* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Working Conditions:
May work in confined spaces and at heights 4-10 feet; be exposed to dust and mold; work extended hours, evenings, and weekends.
Work Standards:
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
Background
The Stanford Libraries connects the Stanford community with academic information resources and services. The Libraries are home to a world-class collection of more than 9 million items, including books, e-books, journals, films, maps, data sets, special collections, archives, and more. The Libraries also employ more than 400 full-time staff across its director groups. These staff provide research counseling, data management services, discovery tools, training, digitization, and a host of other services to ensure that the collection is both effectively used by current researchers and well preserved for the future. Much more information about the Libraries is available on the websitehttps://library.stanford.edu/.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University's research, teaching and clinical missions.
We believe Stanford's future success will be shaped by the diverse perspectives, unique experiences, and inclusive culture of its community.
Why Stanford is for You:
Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:
Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, and course auditing. Join a TedTalk, watch a film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more.
Why work at Stanford?Stanford University has changed the world, over and over again.We are one of Silicon Valley's largest employers - and also one of the most unique. Our mission is to educate future leaders and promote interdisciplinary, world-class research and teaching. This passion makes Stanford an intensely creative, rewarding, and challenging place to work. At the same time, our traditions of respect and collaboration sustain a humane, supportive environment in which to pursue your life and your career.At Stanford you'll work with bright, diverse, dedicated people. You'll find encouragement to learn and grow. You'll enjoy excellent benefits and an outstanding environment. How will it change you?
