Scientist I – AAV Gene Therapy – Preclinical Animal Models

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.

The mission of the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the human brain works in health and disease. Using a big science approach, we generate useful public resources, drive technological and analytical advances, and discover fundamental brain properties through integration of experiments, modeling, and theory.

We are seeking a scientist to join the Gene Therapy Program in the Human Cell Types department. The Gene Therapy team aims to develop new programs to tackle neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases and we are seeking a strong experimentalist to contribute to IND-enabling studies. The successful candidate will have a strong background in molecular, cellular, and behavioral neuroscience in academia or industry. The successful candidate will also be an exceptional team player, have excellent communication skills, and thrive in dynamic environments.

The Allen Institute offers exceptional working conditions and nurtures team science in an intellectually rich and stimulating setting. We provide a highly collaborative research environment offering the opportunity to interface closely with our molecular and cell biologists, bioinformaticians, and partner institutions.

We believe that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences, and backgrounds. High-quality science can only be produced when it includes different perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

Essential Functions

• Design and construct AAV vectors using standard molecular techniques
• Phenotypic evaluation of animal model(s) of human neurodegenerative diseases
• Biochemical and histological evaluation of therapeutic transgene expression in the brain using IHC, mFISH, fluorescence microscopy, western blot
• Validate transgene expression in mouse and primate tissues
• Rapid and transparent communication of results
• Presentation of results internally, externally, and through publications
• Coordinate with commercial partners on therapeutic vector development and testing

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 Education and Experience

• PhD degree in Neuroscience or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• Experience in MS Office and Adobe programs, and other relevant software programs (e.g. Geneious, Noldus, ImageJ)

Preferred Education and Experience

• Strong experience in neurodegenerative disease animal modeling and circuit dissection of behavior
• Experience constructing AAV vectors using standard molecular techniques
• Experience with diverse histological (multiplexed FISH, IHC) and imaging (confocal, epifluorescence) techniques in brain tissue
• Knowledgeable about mammalian brain neuroanatomy and brain cell types
• Experience with AAVs and gene delivery approaches (RO, ICV, stereotaxic injections)
• Able to work independently as well as in a collaborative fast-paced environment
• Proven independent thinker, nimble, and highly motivated experimentalist
• Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Experience leading projects, designing experiments, and mentoring others
• Strong publication record

Work Environment

• Exposure and handing of laboratory animals required
• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or reach
• Laboratory atmosphere – possible exposure to chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances, including biosafety level 2 recombinant viruses.

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment and lab equipment
• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and remotely when possible, due to COVID-19 and our focus on employee safety. We continue to evaluate the safest options for our employees
• This position is funded through a sponsored research collaboration

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• In keeping with our focus on employee safety, all employees must be up to date with vaccinations against COVID-19 as a condition of employment unless a medical or religious accommodation is approved. All employees will be required to keep their vaccination status up to date according to CDC guidance.

Additional Comments

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

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.