Laboratory Aide – Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology

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 lab aide to join our growing lab team. The laboratory aide is an entry-level position responsible for executing repetitive laboratory tasks and lab operations tasks in a quickly changing, methods-diverse laboratory environment. These tasks will likely follow strict Standard Operating Procedures. Good judgment is required for recognizing and reporting process deviations. Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently in a repetitive task environment are mandatory.

This position includes the opportunity to gain experience in a laboratory research environment, and grow into execution of more advanced laboratory tasks, methods, and operations responsibilities over time.

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

• Follow SOPs and good laboratory practices
• Maintain lab hygiene, equipment maintenance, and organization
• Perform routine molecular biology and tissue culture tasks (as needed and after training)
• Executive repetitive lab assays, after training
• Receive shipments and stocking reagents
• Communicate clearly and accurately with supervisor
• Maintain high quality standard of work
• Complete routine tasks with minimal supervision
• Manage time appropriately

Duties and Responsibilities

Materials & Inventory Management (Quartzy & Benchling): Ensures accurate tracking, organization, and availability of materials needed for day-to-day operations.

• Receive, verify, and document incoming materials and supplies
• Maintain accurate digital records and inventory databases
• Register samples or materials in tracking systems to support traceability
• Conduct regular inventory checks and coordinate timely replenishment

Workspace & Operational Support: Helps maintain a clean, organized, and efficient environment to support smooth workflow across the team.

• Support general workspace organization and routine upkeep
• Restock shared supplies and ensure key consumables remain accessible
• Assist with routine operational tasks that contribute to overall workflow efficiency

Procurement Assistance: Supports purchasing activities to ensure necessary equipment and supplies are obtained efficiently.

• Gather product information, quotes, and vendor details
• Prepare and submit purchase or order requests
• Assist in tracking orders and coordinating deliveries as needed

Safety & Compliance: Contributes to a safe and compliant work environment through proper handling and documentation practices.

• Assist with routine safety checks, audits, and compliance activities
• Support proper handling and disposal of waste materials according to guidelines
• Help maintain documentation related to safety protocols and compliance requirements

Documentation & General Support: Maintains accurate internal documentation and provides broad operational support across projects and teams.

• Update and maintain internal procedures, guidelines, and handbooks
• Prepare basic materials or solutions required for routine workflows
• Provide general operational or administrative support for ongoing and ad-hoc projects

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

• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Education and Experience

• B.S. in Cell Biology, Genetics, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, Genomics, Molecular Biology, or related field
• 0 – 1 year of related experience
• Competence, ability, and enthusiasm to work in a molecular biology and cell culture genomics laboratory
• Track-record of being an effective team member with attention to detail
• Strong organizational and meticulous record keeping skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative
• Exact attention to procedural details
• Familiarity with LIMS systems and Microsoft Suite (Excel, Word, etc.)

Work Environment

• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, reach, or climb ladders
• Laboratory atmosphere - possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances
• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment

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's SeaHub employees is 700 Dexter Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State.

Annualized Salary Range

• $43,850 - $55,120 *

* 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 Institute’s 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.