Research Associate I – Human Cell Types

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 Research Associate I to join the Human Cell Types team at the Allen Institute for Brain Science. The Human Cell Types team seeks to characterize and classify brain cell types based on molecular, morphological, and physiological measures. The candidate will be expected to assist in the collection of human and other species brain tissues and prepare the tissue for downstream molecular biology and histology applications. Specifically, the Research Associate will assist with tissue dissociation, flow cytometry, gene expression profiling of single nuclei using RNA-sequencing, and preparation of samples for other applications, such as immunohistochemistry (IHC) and spatial transcriptomics (in situ hybridization, ISH). The Research Associate will receive direct training in the required skills but will be expected to work independently at times. Ability to work in a team-based atmosphere is essential.

The Allen Institute believes 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

• Handling, blocking, dissecting, and sectioning of human and other species brain tissues
• Perform single nucleus genomics experiments and other molecular assays
• Perform histological staining experiments including IHC and ISH
• Operate fluorescence imaging microscopes
• Preparation of laboratory media and reagents
• Generate, process, and analyze data
• Evaluate and communicate research results to supervisor and broader team
• Maintain laboratory documentation using established systems (e.g., Microsoft Office and others)
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute to the development of new SOPs
• Other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) in neuroscience or other related life science field

Preferred Education and Experience

• 0-2 years of experience working in research lab setting
• Basic knowledge of neuroscience
• Evidence of strong teamwork and collaboration skills
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as RNA/DNA isolation, RNA/DNA-sequencing
• Experience with single cell/nucleus RNA-sequencing
• Experience with histological methods including tissue preparation and cryosectioning
• Experience with flow cytometry
• Basic knowledge of human brain anatomy
• Strong oral and written communication skills, and organizational skills
• Ability to critically interpret and analyze scientific data
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a collaborative team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs – Word, Excel, PowerPoint etc.
• Proficiency with other software programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Image J is a plus

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment - possible exposure to chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances
• Possible exposure to BioSafety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses
• This may include wearing personnel protective equipment (PPE)
• Working with dry ice or liquid nitrogen
• Sample handling of the following material, including but not limited to: human and non-human primate tissues, nucleic acids, and cells

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Push/pull up to 50lbs
• Stooping, bending, crouching

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of working hours. The primary work location for this role is 615 Westlake Ave N.

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.

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.