Research Associate Viral Genetic Tools

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Research Associate I – Viral Genetic Tools

The mission of the Allen
Institute is to understand the principles that govern life and to advance health. Our creative and multi-dimensional teams focus on answering some of the biggest questions in bioscience. We accelerate foundational research, catalyze bold ideas, develop tools and models, and openly share our science to make a broad, transformational impact on the world.

The mission of the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the human brain works in health and disease. Using a big science approach, we generate useful public resources, drive technological and analytical advances, and discover fundamental brain properties through integration of experiments, modeling, and theory.

We are seeking a Research Associate who will be part of a multidisciplinary team within the Molecular Genetics department, which generates high-precision genetic tools to effectively label, monitor, and manipulate distinct cell types within the mouse brain. We aim to generate novel viral vectors, which will enable us to target individual cell types, in a reproducible and precise manner. These genetic tools enable the analysis of the structure and function of neural circuits within the brain and represent foundational resources for the neuroscience community.

The ideal candidate should have a strong background in molecular biology, with emphasis on cloning strategies. They will be collaborative and highly motivated with prior experience in cutting edge molecular biology techniques and should be detail oriented, organized, and able to multitask.

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

• Design and construct viral vector plasmids using molecular cloning techniques
• Work with cell cultures to produce viral vectors
• Handle brain tissue to evaluate transgene expression in the brain, using fluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH)
• Manage characterization efforts conducted by our core teams and coordinate activities with key stakeholders
• Carefully follow existing methods and SOPs and propose modifications and improvements
• Maintain meticulous experimental records with a strong sense of responsibility, accountability, and integrity
• Strong time management skills with the capacity to prioritize work from multiple projects

* 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 life science (e.g., Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genetics) or related field
• Experience with plasmid construct design: PCR; restriction digestion; cloning;
  Gibson assembly; DNA sequencing
• Proficiency using Vector Builder / Snap Gene / Geneious platforms for molecular cloning and sequence analysis
• Experience in standard histological techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, RNA in situ hybridization, etc.)

Preferred Education and Experience

• 2 years of lab experience
• Experience performing invasive live animal procedures, such as injections (intraperitoneal, retro-orbital or stereotaxic) and transcardial perfusions
• Experience in standard histological techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, RNA in situ hybridization, etc.)
• Experience with standard tissue culture…