Research Associate I – Molecular Genetics - Virus Production

The mission of the Allen Institute is to understand the principles that govern life and to advance health. Our creative and multi-dimensional teams focus on answering some of the biggest questions in bioscience. We accelerate foundational research, catalyze bold ideas, develop tools and models, and openly share our science to make a broad, transformational impact on the world.

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 the integration of experiments, modeling, and theory.

The Viral Technology team within the Molecular Genetics department supports the needs of multiple teams within the Allen Institute through the production and development of various viral tools. Our main goal is to provide efficient custom recombinant viruses for cell labeling, circuit tracing and functional manipulation in the central nervous system.

We are seeking a research associate to join the Viral Technology team in order to meet the increased demand for viral tools. The candidate will be responsible for a wide variety of laboratory tasks and experiments involving the production, purification, titration, and characterization of AAV viruses, lentiviruses and rabies viruses. They should follow good laboratory practice, keep accurate records, and be highly motivated to learn new skills.

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

• Molecular cloning and DNA/RNA purification
• Maintain different cell lines, including passaging, cryopreservation and thawing
• Produce, purify, and measure the titers of viral preps
• Support in vitro and in vivo virus characterization
• Meet production schedules
• Follow standard operating procedures and good laboratory practices

*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

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences (e.g., Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Neuroscience, or related field)
• Experience in cell culture and molecular biology

Preferred Education and Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in a laboratory or research environment
• 1-2 years of experience in rodent surgery
• 1-2 years of experience with virus production or in vivo/vitro applications
• 1-2 years of experience in epifluorescence or confocal microscopy
• Basic knowledge of brain anatomy

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment - possible chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances exposure
• Possible exposure to BioSafety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses
• This may include wearing personnel protective equipment (PPE) - including wearing respiratory protection for long periods of time
• May handle laboratory animals or animal specimens

Animal Care Services

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Administration of compounds to mice (iv, ip, sc, po, im, ro, icv)
• Perform euthanasia, surgical procedures and tissue collections

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or reach

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.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Willingness to receive proper vaccinations prior to work with human cell lines and rabies viruses
• All employees who work with live animals must complete an Occupational Health medical history form and/or consultation with an Occupational Health Provider and receive clearance to work with animals. Depending on your health history and job responsibilities, an annual respiratory health screening and clearance to use a respirator may also be required.

Annualized Salary Range

• $54,250- $66,450*

* 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.