Research Associate I – Histology

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.

This Research Associate I is responsible for executing a variety of laboratory tasks and/or experiments in a high-throughput laboratory environment following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Good judgment and problem-solving skills are required to recognize process deviations, participate in troubleshooting, and operate complex laboratory instrumentation. The Research Associate is expected to comply with regulatory requirements, adhere to SOPs, and work efficiently in a team environment. Excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the willingness to work in a team-based deadline-driven atmosphere are mandatory. This Research Associate will join the Histology team consisting of seven Research Associates within the Molecular Biology Department, supporting a variety of Cell Types projects requiring consistent and standardized high-quality sectioning, staining, and reagent prep.

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

• Cryosectioning and slide microtome of various brain tissues
• Operate complex instrumentation (Leica Autostainers/cover-slipper, Sakura Slide Stainer and Tek Glas G2 Cover-slipper, Plasma cleaner, and Biocare Intellipath FLX)
• Operate various Miscellaneous Lab equipment (Degasser, Osmometer, balance, and pH meter)
• Perform multiple manual and automated histological staining processes (Nissl, IHC, IF, LFB-H&E, Biocytin, AChE)
• Make various large-volume bulk reagents (ACSF, PFA) to support Histological processes and other core processes
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation using established methods (which may include Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project Web Access, PowerApps, InfoPath, custom Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), Mouse Book, and others)
• Follow SOPs, good laboratory practices, and regulatory requirements
• Follow detailed instructions in the execution of laboratory tasks
• Maintain clear and accurate communication within and between teams
• Collaborate and work efficiently in a team environment
• Multi-task and complete routine tasks with minimal supervision
• Adhere to a team schedule and manage time effectively
• Maintain high data quality and integrity standards
• Other duties as assigned

*Note: Reasonable accommodation 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 biological sciences or related field

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor of Science degree
• 0-2 years of basic laboratory experience
• Basic Laboratory skills- Pipetting, reagent prep, lab documentation, and good laboratory practices
• Basic knowledge of brain neuroanatomy, histology experience, and cryo-sectioning/microtomy experience on cryostat/sliding microtome
• Demonstrated operating knowledge of computers with intermediate-level ability, specifically Microsoft Office (Excel and SharePoint), with the ability to learn new software programs
• Experience and skills with Excel documents, formulas, and worksheets
• Highly motivated researcher with excellent organizational and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and complete tasks on time
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Excellent work ethic displayed as a reliable, self-motivated, enthusiastic team player

Work Environment

• Work is directly within the laboratory environment, including potential exposure to chemicals, biohazard tissue, and operating automated lab equipment

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting to 40 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment and repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Push/pull up to 50lbs.
• 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 most working hours. The primary work location for this role is 615 Westlake Ave N., with the flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

Annualized Salary Range

• $54,250- $66,450*

* Final salary depends on the required education for the role, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with 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.