Scientist I, Synthetic 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.

The goal of our Cell Science accelerator is to create the first holistic framework to predict how cells self-organize into complex cell communities and tissues in order to program an entirely new kind of synthetic tissue that can be used to ask focused questions about how cells behave, including in response to drug interventions.

The Cell Science team at the Allen Institute is recruiting a Scientist in Developmental Morphogenesis to contribute to their ambitious mission: to make multicellular behavior predictable and programmable. To achieve this mission, the Cell Science team draws from distinctive strengths in stem cell engineering, high-content imaging, image quantification, and data-driven machine learning to advance our understanding of cell states during morphogenesis. As a division within the Allen Institute, Cell Science uses a team-oriented approach, focusing on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a transformational impact on science.

We seek outstanding candidates with deep interest and expertise in synthetic biology. The successful candidate will have access to world-class resources, including cutting-edge microscopy platforms, high-throughput cell and molecular engineering pipelines, and deep expertise in modeling and theory. The candidate will be expected to identify, develop, and pursue ambitious questions and synthetic biological tools to enable robust programming of multicellular behavior. The candidate will also scientifically supervise scientists and subject matter experts as appropriate for their specific projects and foster a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within the team and within the Institute.

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.

Required Education and Experience

• PhD degree in biological science (e.g., cell biology, developmental biology, biophysics, bioengineering), physical science, or related science, engineering or related field
• Established as an expert in synthetic biology with publications in peer-reviewed journals

Preferred Education and Experience

• No more than three years of direct experience after award of PhD
• Experience with 3D, live fluorescent imaging modalities
• Experience working in 3D stem cell models
• Experience with library-based screening
• Experience in DNA/RNA design
• Experience in protein design
• Interest and experience with developmental engineering, or synthetic development
• Experience in image analysis
• Experience working in dynamic, fast-paced research environments with a start-up and growth mindset
• Strong collaboration skills, including working with program managers and diverse subject matter experts
• Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills for cross-team coordination

Physical Demands

• 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 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

• $87,450 - $108,250*

* 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