Scientist I – Neurophysiology of Naturalistic Learning

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 Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics is focused on making fundamental discoveries in systems neuroscience. We are interested in how the brain builds our understanding of the complex world to guide the flexible behaviors. The answers will be in terms of defined neuron types and circuits. Employing a team-based approach for discovery neuroscience, we strive to uncover the neural basis of behavior through technological innovation, cutting-edge experiments, modeling, and theory.

We are seeking a Scientist to lead a project to uncover the neurophysiology of naturalistic learning over long timescales. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, have deep knowledge in neuroscience and behavior, and a strong interest in quantitative electrophysiology and computations in brain-wide circuits. The Scientist will lead efforts to design and implement long-term, naturalistic behavioral paradigms for freely-moving mice with simultaneous observation and perturbation of neurophysiology. This position will leverage state-of-the-art behavioral, computational, electrophysiological, and imaging methods, as well as molecular and transgenic resources. The goal is to make fundamental discoveries about identified cell types within brain circuits during flexible behaviors.

The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences, and backgrounds. Progress in science benefits from multiple 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 perform experiments involving in vivo cell-type-specific electrophysiology, neural manipulations, and carefully-controlled mouse behavior
• Develop and implement quantitative models and analyses of behavior and neural measurements
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to develop and evaluate methods for data collection, quantification, and analysis
• Train team members to perform procedures
• Collaborate internally and externally to analyze data and develop hypotheses
• Present results internally, via talks and progress reports, and to the external community, via conferences and publications

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 in neuroscience, biological sciences, ethology, biomedical engineering, or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience

Preferred Education and Experience

• 0-5 years of postdoctoral experience
• Demonstrated proficiency in conducting collaborative, multidisciplinary research
• Experience with neurophysiology or behavior
• Strong understanding of statistics and data science
• Ability to write reusable code in Python or Matlab
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong publication record

Work Environment

• May enter laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

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., with the flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

Travel

• Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required

Additional Comments

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

Annualized Salary Range

• $83,250 - $103,000*

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

Benefits

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined 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.