Research Associate I

About the Role

The Allen Institute accelerates science for a healthier world through large-scale research. The goal of the Brain Science accelerator is to produce three interlocking resources: cell type atlases, connectomes, and a knowledge platform.

This Research Associate I position is on a research team focused on understanding how the proteome of neuronal populations and their synapses shapes brain circuit function. The team develops scalable synapse proteomics and systems-level analysis approaches to understand how the proteome and protein interactions determine synapse-type specific physiology and circuit connectivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform tissue dissections and biochemical preparation of mouse brain samples for downstream molecular profiling and imaging workflows.
• Execute experimental workflows for synapse isolation, fluorescence-based sorting, and proteomic sample preparation.
• Execute histology, fluorescence imaging, and tissue processing workflows.
• Support molecular biology and viral vector preparation workflows.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and experimental records using established methods.
• Contribute to optimization, troubleshooting, and quality control of experimental workflows.
• Coordinate with internal teams and core facilities to support large-scale data and sample generation.
• Present results and summarize experimental progress within the team.
• Follow SOPs, good laboratory practices, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, or related field.

Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Positive attitude, self-starter, demonstrated attention to detail, and enthusiasm for learning new experimental approaches.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in one or more of the following: molecular biology or biochemistry, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, mouse tissue processing and histology, microscopy, flow cytometry, automation of experimental workflows, or related experimental disciplines.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals.
• Laboratory environment with potential exposure to hazardous substances and BioSafety Level 2 organisms (e.g., recombinant viruses).
• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds.
• Fine motor movements for operating computers and lab equipment; repetitive motion.
• Stooping, bending, crouching.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Occasional evening and weekend hours required.
• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of working hours.
• Primary work location: 615 Westlake Ave N., with flexibility for limited remote work.

Travel

• Occasional travel to partner sites for compliance oversight.
• Occasional attendance and participation in national and international conferences.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• All employees working with live animals must complete an Occupational Health medical history form/consultation and receive clearance.
• Depending on health history, annual respiratory health screening and respirator clearance may be required.

Additional Comments

• This opportunity does not sponsor work visas.
• This opportunity does not offer relocation funding.

Annualized Salary Range

• $54,250 - $66,450