Research Associate I – Genome Engineering

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.

We are seeking a Research Associate to be part of the Molecular Anatomy team at the Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics. As a member of this team, the Research Associate will be contributing to efforts to enable precise and efficient genome engineering in the mouse brain. In recent years, there have been rapid advances in spatial transcriptomics (i.e. imaging of mRNA) but efforts to localize proteins have lagged far behind. By adopting and optimizing state-of-the-art genome engineering techniques, our team will systematically catalog the subcellular distribution of all proteins in the brain – including uncharacterized and disease-related gene products. Experimental approaches and responsibilities will involve mammalian cell culture, CRISPR/Cas9 engineering, nucleic acid extraction, PCR and next-generation sequencing. Ideal candidates will have a background in biological sciences with the temperament to work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment and will receive training in all relevant techniques.

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.

Essential Functions

• Mammalian cell culture including viral packaging
• Nucleic acid extraction
• Next-generation sequencing library preparation
• Follow standardized operating procedures, good laboratory practices, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain clear and accurate communication within and between teams
• Adhere to a team schedule and manage time effectively

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, Chemistry, Neuroscience, or related discipline

Preferred Education and Experience

• Experience with the preparation of laboratory reagents, buffers, and aliquots
• Familiarity with modern molecular cloning techniques
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment - possible exposure to chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances
• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animal tissue
• This may include wearing personnel protective equipment (PPE) - including wearing respiratory protection for extended periods of time
• Exposure to Biosafety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses

Animal Care Services

• May require exposure to and handling of laboratory animals
• Will require performing euthanasia and tissue collections from mice

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

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.

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 work visa sponsorship**

Annualized Salary Range

• $48,100- $64,150*

* 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.