Scientist II – Synthetic Biology and Cell Signaling / SeaHub

The mission of the Allen Institute is to unlock the complexities of bioscience and advance our knowledge to improve human health. Using an open science, multi-scale, team-oriented approach, the Allen Institute focuses on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a broad, transformational impact on science.

Join the Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology (SeaHub), a new initiative at the intersection of academic creativity and start-up style execution. Our mission is to reimagine living cells and genomes as devices for recording biology and diagnostic information over time, as well as for encoding real-time therapeutic decision-making. Take off with us as we imagine — and create — a kind of cellular flight recorder that can also seize the controls. Be part of a small dynamic team on the ground floor of a new program with world-class scientists.

SeaHub is looking for a Scientist II, to join the “Sense” team. The “Sense” team is part of a larger effort that includes teams focused on expanding our abilities to engineer cells and genomes to autonomously “Write,” “Read,” and “Act” at a molecular level. We are looking for a highly skilled molecular biologist with a strong background in synthetic biology to expand our ability to translate biological signals into synthetic records in genomic DNA. The successful candidate will play a key role in designing, executing, and analyzing studies aimed at improving the performance of artificial signal transducers such as ENGRAM. This position requires a collaborative mindset and the ability to work cross-functionally with other research teams to drive project success.

At the Allen Institute, we believe that science is for everyone – and should be open to everyone. We are dedicated to combating biases and reducing barriers to STEM careers more broadly. We also believe that science is better when it includes different perspectives and voices. We strive to make the Allen Institute a place where everyone feels like they belong and are empowered to do their best work in a supportive environment.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Essential Functions

• Develop and implement emerging RNA sensing technologies to reduce leakage, enhance sensitivity, broaden dynamic range, and enable plug-and-play capability of molecular sensors
• Design, execute, and analyze studies aimed at improving the performance of artificial signal transducers such as ENGRAM
• Perform mammalian cell culture, including experience with primary human cells and transfecting/transducing multiple types of cells
• Design and conduct molecular biology experiments, including cloning libraries and NGS library preparation
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including molecular biologists and computational biologists to integrate sense team findings into broader research efforts
• Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures, data, and results in accordance with regulatory guidelines and company policies
• Present research findings internally and externally through presentations, scientific meetings, and publications
• Mentor and train junior team members

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Required Experience and Education

• PhD degree in biology, genetics or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• Minimum 3 years of relevant post-doctoral experience

Preferred Education and Experience

• 5 – 7 years relevant post-doctoral experience
• Familiarity with signal transduction, cell signaling, RNA biology, genome engineering, synthetic biology, functional genomics and screening, or related disciplines
• Experience performing molecular biology methods including as many as possible of: RNA isolation, RT-PCR, CRISPR/Cas9-editing, plasmid cloning, agarose and acrylamide gel analysis, Western Blots, mammalian cell culture, stem cell culture, qPCR, ddPCR, reporter assays, and NGS library prep
• Ability to work independently and meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with massively parallel reporter assays, CRISPR/Cas9/prime editing
• Familiarity with NGS data analysis

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office/lab equipment

Work Environment

• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or reach
• Possible exposure and handling of laboratory animals
• Laboratory atmosphere - possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of the working hours. We are a Washington State employer, and the primary work location for Allen Institute employees is 700 Dexter Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State

Travel

• The successful candidate may be invited to attend occasional national and international conferences

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity offers relocation assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity may offer work visa sponsorship**

Annualized Salary Range

• $104,050 - $128,700 *

* Final salary depends on required education for the role, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with work location, where applicable.

Benefits

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outline in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institute’s 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institutes Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institute’s benefits offering are located at the following link to the Benefits Guide: https://alleninstitute.org/careers/benefits.

It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.