Research Associate I – Imaging

Allen Institute; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Allen Institute in Seattle seeks a Research Associate I to support spatial transcriptomics. You will perform high-throughput laboratory tasks, operate imaging systems, and contribute to generating high-quality in situ data to define brain cell types.

The role emphasizes rigor, organization, and timely data production. Requirements include a Bachelor's in life sciences and basic neuroscience knowledge; prior lab experience and strong communication skills are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a life science or related field.
• Basic knowledge of neuroscience and cell biology.

Responsibilities

• Operate fluorescence imaging microscopes.
• Handle mouse and human tissue.
• Perform multiple histological staining processes (Nissl, IHC, Biocytin, ISH).
• Prepare and assemble custom slides and imaging chambers.
• Operate MERSCOPE, Xenium and other imaging equipment.
• Compile, process and analyze data; communicate research results.
• Evaluate, calibrate, and troubleshoot instrument functionality.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation using SOPs and LIMS.

Skills

Basic neuroscience knowledge

Basic cell biology knowledge

Strong scientific communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in life science or related field

Tools

MERSCOPE

Xenium

LIMS (Custom Laboratory Information Management System)

Job description

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 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 successful candidate is well-organized, with curiosity to answer scientific questions, and takes pride in producing high quality data in a timely manner.

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

• 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
• Operate MERSCOPE, Xenium and any other imaging equipment within the team
• 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, Custom Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and other packages
• 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 a life science or related field
• Basic knowledge of neuroscience and cell biology

Preferred Education and Experience

• Exceptional manual dexterity and attention to detail
• Strong scientific communication skills (written and oral)
• 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
• 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

• 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.
• Occasional weekend hours may be required

Additional Comments

• Please note, this opportunity does not sponsor work visas
• Please note, this opportunity may offerrelocation assistance

Annualized Salary Range

• $54,250 - $66,450

* Final salary depends on required education for the role, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with work location, where applicable.

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outline 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.

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