Research Associate III – Integrative Metabolic Biology

The Allen Institute accelerates science for a healthier world through large-scale research designed to answer some of the most complex questions in biology. Our multi-disciplinary teams generate foundational knowledge, tools, and data to understand how our brain, cells, and immune system work. We share our work openly so others can build on it, move faster, and ask bigger questions. We drive discovery forward and create new possibilities for improving human health.

Join our Integrative Metabolic Biology initiative, aimed to expand the intersection of cell biology, immunology, and brain science. Our mission is to integrate mitochondrial and metabolic biology with cell physiology modelling, immune system function and inflammation, and brain and neuronal mapping to better understand health, aging and disease processes.

We are looking for a Research Associate to join our initiative, responsible for executing research pipelines to characterize mitochondrial and metabolic parameters in human and mouse cells and tissues from multiple sources. Under moderate supervision, the Research Associate will be working at the bench to culture cells, process tissues and perform molecular and cell biology assays, including flow cytometry, confocal and other imaging modalities, western blot, RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR, bulk and single-cell RNA-seq, and sample preparation for metabolic profiling (Seahorse, steady-state and flux metabolic studies, mass spectroscopy imaging).

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

• Execute molecular and cell biology protocols, including flow cytometry, quantitative PCR, western blots, RNAseq and associated data quantification/analysis
• Assist with imaging experiments, including confocal and mass spec imaging and associated data quantification/analysis
• Human and mouse cell cultures
• Contribute to the development of new protocols as needed
• Present results and summarize progress to help frame internal decision-making
• Comply with SOPs, good laboratory practices, and regulatory requirements
• Adhere to a team schedule and individual time management
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation using established methods
• Train new lab members in molecular, cellular, and imaging techniques
• Other duties as assigned

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 biology, or related field
• 4 years of equivalent experience

Preferred Education and Experience

• Experience in mitochondrial biology

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and lab instruments/equipment

Work Environment

• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or reach
• Possible exposure and handling of laboratory animals
• Laboratory atmosphere - possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role requires onsite work 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 employees is 615 Westlake Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• 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.

Travel

• The successful candidate may be invited to attend occasional national and international conferences

Additional Comments

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

Annualized Salary Range

• $76,000 - $93,150 *

* Final salary depends on 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.