Research Associate II – 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 for discovery neuroscience. Knowledge, data, models and tools will be widely shared, in part to support the development of therapies for brain disorders.

The Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics is seeking an experienced research associate to join a team focused on understanding the roles of neuromodulators and neurotransmitters in circuit function during flexible decision-making behaviors. A key component of this role will be to execute experiments to evaluate new genetically encoded neurochemical indicators in vivo. This individual will also select and validate methods for expressing multiple indicators simultaneously. The ideal candidate will be collaborative and highly motivated, have experience in experimental design, and have prior experience working with genetically encoded indicators.

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

• Perform experiments to evaluate the performance of genetically encoded neuromodulator and neurotransmitter indicators in different cell types across different brain regions in mice
• Work with a team of scientists and engineers to implement novel measurement and data analysis techniques
• Assess strategies for co-expression and measurement of multiple indicators in vivo

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 or related discipline (biochemistry, molecular biology, neuroscience, etc.)
• Minimum two (2) years of research experience in biology in either an academic or industry setting
• Experience handling mice and performing in vivo experiments 
• Experience effectively communicating experimental results and troubleshooting

Preferred Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in neuroscience or related field
• Experience using genetically encoded tools for in vivo neuroscience research
• Experience with in vivo neurophysiology
• Experience with histology
• Stereotaxic surgery experience
• Prior experience with data analysis and statistics, especially using Python

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment - possible exposure to chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances

Animal Care Services

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Perform health assessments of mice
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections

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 flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• In keeping with our focus on employee safety, all employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment unless a medical or religious exemption is approved. All employees will be required to keep their vaccination status up to date according to CDC guidance and our policy.

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity offers relocation assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity does not offer work visa sponsorship**

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