Research Associate I – Optical Physiology

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 Neural Dynamics is focused on fundamental discoveries in systems neuroscience. We are interested in how the brain builds our understanding of the complex world to guide the flexible behaviors that address our biological needs. The answers will be in terms of defined neuron types and circuits interacting across the whole brain and body. We will develop next-generation methods and theories and employ a team-based approach to discovery neuroscience. Knowledge, data, models, and tools will be widely shared to support the development of therapies for brain disorders.

The Research Associate will join the optical physiology core team at the Allen Institute. Our team’s research focus is on using in vivo, 2-photon calcium imaging techniques to characterize the activity of neurons in awake behaving animals. As a member of this team, the Research Associate will contribute to the generation and analysis of key datasets that will be used to test models of cortical computation during learning and behavior.

The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences, and backgrounds. Progress in science benefits from multiple perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

Essential Functions

• Work independently, and as a member of a cross-functional team, to perform imaging experiments on awake, behaving mice
• Operate multiple imaging instruments and software systems (two-photon microscopes, bright-field microscopes, epi-fluorescence microscopes)
• Carry out specialized experimental procedures that require attention to detail and technical/engineering aptitude
• Conduct thorough analysis and review processes to ensure and maintain high standards of data quality
• Handle mice and work with animal behavior model systems
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures, good laboratory practices, and regulatory requirements
• Write and contribute to new protocols
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and reporting using established methods
• Assist and train other staff as necessary

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 a life science or related field
• Basic knowledge of mammalian neuroanatomy, neurobiology, microscopy, optics and/or cell biology
• Experience with working with laboratory animals
• Experience working with laboratory equipment

Preferred Education and Experience

• Ability to work as part of a collaborative team
• Willingness to cross-train and perform other duties as assigned
• Exceptional manual dexterity, attention to detail, and quantitative problem solving

Work Environment

• Exposure to, and handling of, laboratory animals
• Possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances
• May be required to be available outside of standard working hours (weekends and/or holidays)
• Possible exposure to BioSafety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses

Animal Care Services

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Pre and post-operative care for mice
• Administration of compounds to mice (iv, ip, sc, po, im, ro, icv)
• Perform health assessments of mice
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections
• Perform daily facility maintenance and/or closing procedures

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Push/pull up to 20lbs
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This is an essential job and expected to report for work regardless of weather and/or other conditions
• 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 flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

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.

Annualized Salary Range

• $48,100 - $64,150*

* 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.