Research Associate I – Molecular Genetics Scientific Operations

Research Associate I Molecular Genetics Scientific Operations

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. The Molecular Genetics department at the Brain Science accelerator defines cell types in the mouse nervous system with single-cell genomics techniques and generates high-precision genetic tools to effectively identify, monitor, and manipulate distinct neuronal cell types.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate I to join the Molecular Genetics department in direct support of the Genetic Tools Pipeline team. We generate and characterize novel viral vectors and transgenic mouse lines 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.

This role is embedded in a fast-paced, milestone-driven research environment. The successful candidate will be a highly organized, detail-oriented, and service-oriented team member, who takes genuine ownership of the laboratory and operational support functions that keep the pipeline running.

This candidate will work closely with team managers and research staff, serving as a reliable and communicative partner across multiple internal teams and with external collaborators, vendors, and biological repositories. High attention to detail and exceptional written and verbal communication skills are essential: this role requires clear, professional correspondence with scientists, core teams, institutional partners, and outside organizations on a regular basis.

The ideal candidate is meticulous, intellectually curious, and genuinely motivated by enabling the success of the team around them. They bring a collaborative, process-oriented mindset and a commitment to accuracy and thoroughness in everything they do. The right candidate will develop deep familiarity with the Genetic Tools Pipeline through demonstrated reliability and scientific understanding.

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

• Support Genetic Tools Pipeline coordination, data quality, and metadata organization, including curation and maintenance of viral vector and transgenic mouse line records across pipeline databases
• Perform bench-level laboratory support including biological sample preparation, processing, and storage in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and equipment compliance, including coordination with facilities, vendors, and administrative departments to ensure smooth day-to-day operations
• Manage biological resource distribution and repository activities, including material transfer agreements (MTAs), depositions to external repositories, and associated record-keeping and reporting
• Create, maintain, and audit SOPs and process-tracking tools to support pipeline visibility, operational efficiency, and data integrity
• Communicate professionally and proactively across internal research and core teams, program management, and external partners; ensure timely follow-through and appropriate escalation on all assigned tasks
• Support recurring departmental operations and administrative functions as needed
• 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 sciences, biology, neuroscience, or a related field
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to learn new software and database systems quickly

Preferred Education and Experience

• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed protocols and procedures with accuracy; experience working within structured, process-driven environments
• Exceptional attention to detail, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple recurring tasks accurately and reliably
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft clear, professional correspondence and documentation, and to collaborate effectively across teams with varying levels of scientific background
• Demonstrated follow-through: ability to complete tasks fully, confirm completion with appropriate stakeholders, escalate issues promptly and clearly, and incorporate feedback and direction into day-to-day work
• Experience working in a research laboratory or research operations environment
• Familiarity with viral vectors (e.g., AAV, rabies virus), transgenic mouse models, or neuroscience research workflows
• Experience with a LIMS or similar laboratory information management system
• Experience with inventory management, biological resource distribution, or material transfer agreements
• Experience with software platforms such as Smartsheet, Power Automate, Power BI, Power Apps, or Office 365
• Experience creating or maintaining process documentation, SOPs, or protocol tracking systems (e.g., protocols.io)
• Understanding of biosafety practices and experience working in a BioSafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory environment

Work Environment

• Laboratory and office environment; this role is fully onsite
• Laboratory environment - possible chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances exposure
• Exposure to BSL-2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses appropriate personnel protective equipment (PPE) required
• Working with dry ice and liquid nitrogen

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and lab equipment; repetitive motion
• Push/pull up to 50 lbs (e.g., pushing a cart)
• Stooping, bending, crouching, reaching, and occasional ladder use

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Full-time employment; 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday during regular business hours
• Occasional evening or 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. Seattle, WA 98109

Additional Comments

• Please note, this opportunity does not sponsor work visas

Annualized Salary Range

• $54,250 - $66,450*
• Final salary depends on the required education for the role, experience, level of skills relevant to the role, and work location, where applicable.

Benefits

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined in the Allen Institutes Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institutes 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institutes Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institutes 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.