Research Associate II – Barcoded Connectomics

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.

The goal of the Brain Science accelerator is to produce three interlocking resources: cell type atlases that catalog every kind of brain cell across ages and species, connectomes that chart the brain's intricate wiring, and a knowledge platform that knits it all together with powerful analysis tools. Every dataset is freely shared, so discoveries made here fuel discoveries everywhere.

We are seeking a Research Associate II to join the Barcoded Connectomics team. The Barcoded Connectomics team is broadly interested in understanding the wiring logic of long-range connectivity in the brain. Led by Xiaoyin Chen, who developed BARseq, the team is developing in situ sequencing and barcoded connectomics techniques to reveal the relationship between cell types, gene expression, and projections during development and across species.

The candidate will focus on performing and optimizing in situ sequencing experiments to support projects that aim to reveal principles in brain wiring. In addition to working within the Barcoded Connectomics team, the candidate will benefit from interaction with other teams at the Allen Institute with complementary expertise in sequencing, transcriptomics, and neuroanatomy. We welcome candidates from diverse scientific backgrounds, who may bring their own questions and expertise into the field.

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

• Perform routine in situ sequencing experiments
• Managing reagent stocks needed for in situ sequencing experiments
• Optimize in situ sequencing experiments
• Coordinate with other teams to acquire data and optimize experiments
• Monitor and manage data acquisition and storage
• Assist in publishing and presenting findings in peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences

*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 Neuroscience (or other STEM related fields such as Biology, Computer science, and Mathematics)
• Minimum 2 years of experience with lab-based research, experimental methods and troubleshooting

Preferred Education and Experience

• 2 years or more combined experience in molecular biology techniques, tissue culture, and microscopy

Work Environment

• Laboratory atmosphere - possible exposure to laser, chemical, biological or other hazardous substance
• Exposure to BioSafety Level 2 materials, such as recombinant viruses
• Potential exposure to and handling of live and fixed NHP tissues and mouse tissues
• Potential exposure risk for bloodborne pathogens, e.g. Simian B virus
• This may include wearing personnel protective equipment (PPE)

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Occasional evening and weekend hours required
• 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

• Occasional travel to partner sites for compliance oversight required
• Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required

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.

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity does not offer relocation assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity does not offer work visa sponsorship**

Annualized Salary Range

$66,500 - $81,350*

* 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