Research Associate II - Viral Tools

Research Associate II – Brain Cell Type-specific Viral Tools

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 Health accelerator is to revolutionize the treatment of brain diseases by creating the first dual-use molecular tools that can not only reveal information about the diversity of cells in the human brain but also be used to target novel treatments to specific types of cells.

We are seeking an experienced Research Associate to support the characterization of novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors designed to target specific brain cell types for functional analysis and manipulation. The successful candidate will join the Brain Health team at the Allen Institute and contribute to studies evaluating AAV tropism, biodistribution and transgene expression across mouse, non-human primate, and human brain tissue, with a primary focus on non-human primate studies.

This role will primarily support brain tissue processing, histology, multiplexed fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH/RNAscope), immunohistochemistry, confocal fluorescence microscopy, imaging, and quantitative image analysis to characterize viral transduction patterns by identifying the cell types and neural circuits expressing viral reporters. The position will also provide support for the planning and execution of non-human primate (NHP) in vivo viral injection studies using a robotic injection platform, as needed. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with brain tissue sectioning and staining, fluorescence microscopy, a strong understanding of neuroanatomy, and proficiency with image analysis using ImageJ, Python, or similar analytical tools.

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

• Assist with brain tissue collection and processing
• Plan and execute multiplexed fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH/RNAscope) and immunohistochemistry staining of brain tissue
• Support NHP in vivo virus injection surgeries using a robotic injection platform
• Evaluate cell type specificity using fluorescence microscopy, antibody staining and image analysis using ImageJ and/or Python
• Apply quantitative approaches for assessing cell type specificity of labeling (with training)
• Generate data summaries in PowerPoint and Excel for team to evaluate
• Present a periodic summary of progress to the research community in the organization
• Uphold rigorous standards, including detailed lab notebook records of all experiments
• Contribute to progress reports, scientific publications, and grant applications

*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 neuroscience, biology, or a related field
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant laboratory research experience
• Hands-on experience with brain tissue processing, including sectioning using a microtome and/or cryostat
• Experience performing histological techniques, including immunohistochemistry and multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH/RNAscope)
• Experience with tissue imaging using epifluorescence and/or confocal microscopy, and quantitative image analysis
• Experience performing quantitative image analysis, including brain cell quantification

Preferred Education and Experience

• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, milestone-driven research environment
• Ability to develop, document, and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Basic knowledge of macaque neuroanatomy and stereotaxic injection techniques
• Experience working with non-human primate brain tissue
• Experience working with viral vectors and/or viral delivery methods in rodents or non-human primates
• Experience with ImageJ, Python, or other quantitative image analysis software

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards, live animals

Animal Care Services

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Pre- and post-operative care for mice
• Administration of compounds to mice (intraperitoneal, retro-orbital, and intracerebroventricular)
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Full-time employment; 40-hour work week typically Monday-Friday during regular business hours
• Occasional evening and weekend hours may be 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, subject to manager approval.

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 sponsor work visas **

Annualized Salary Range

• $66,500 - $81,350*

* 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.