Black in Neuro: Research Associate I – Imaging

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.

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 integration of experiments, modeling, and theory.

We are looking for a Research Associate I as part of an interdisciplinary team working on spatial transcriptomics. The goal of our team is to produce high-quality in situ hybridization data in order to characterize cell types in the brain. This person 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 for process development, recognizing process deviations, participating in troubleshooting, and operation of 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. The successful candidate is well-organized, with a driven curiosity to answer scientific questions, and takes pride in producing high-quality data in a timely manner.

The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences, and backgrounds. High-quality science can only be produced when it includes different perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

This requisition is intended for Black In Neuro members and networks.

Essential Functions

• Operate fluorescence imaging microscopes
• Handling of mouse and human tissue
• Perform multiple histological staining processes (Nissl, IHC, Biocytin, ISH)
• Prepare and assemble custom slides and imaging chambers
• Compile, process and analyze data; evaluate and communicate research results
• Evaluate, calibrate, and troubleshoot experiment quality and instrument functionality
• Contribute to a rigorously scientific, cohesive, and efficient team environment
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation using established methods, which may include Microsoft Office, Microsoft Access, custom Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), Atlassian JIRA, and others
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures, good laboratory practices, and comply with all regulatory requirements
• 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 life science or related field
• Basic knowledge of neuroscience and cell biology
• Exceptional manual dexterity and attention to detail
• Strong scientific communication skills (written and oral)
• Intermediate level ability with MS Office and custom imaging software programs

Preferred Education and Experience

• 0-2 years experience working in a laboratory setting
• Laboratory experience with cell or molecular biology
• Hands-on experience working with microscopes
• Strong computer skills, knowledge of databases, and reading/running scripts
• Understanding of custom imaging software programs

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards
• Occasional exposure to safety hazards, noises, change in temperature, chemicals, and other hazardous materials and machinery
• Exposure to Class IV lasers

Physical Demands

• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders
• Must be able to resolve red/green colors
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment, lab equipment

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Occasional weekend hours may be required
• This role is currently working onsite and remotely when possible, due to COVID-19 and our focus on employee safety. We continue to evaluate the safest options for our employees.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications 

• In keeping with our focus on employee safety, all employees must be up to date with vaccinations against COVID-19 as a condition of employment unless a medical or religious accommodation is approved. All employees will be required to keep their vaccination status up to date according to CDC guidance.
• Please include a letter of recommendation with your application

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity does not sponsor work visas **
• **Please note, this opportunity may offer relocation assistance**

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