Research Associate I – Virus Production

Research Associate I – Virus Production

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.

We are searching for a Research Associate I to join the Viral Technology team and support the growing demand for viral tools. The candidate will perform laboratory tasks and experiments involving the production, purification, titration, and characterization of AAV viruses, lentiviruses, and rabies viruses. They should follow good laboratory practice, keep accurate records, and be highly motivated to learn new skills.

The Viral Technology team within the Molecular Genetics department supports the needs of multiple teams within the Allen Institute through the production and development of various viral tools. Our main goal is to provide efficient custom recombinant viruses for cell labeling, circuit tracing and functional manipulation in the central nervous system.

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

• Molecular cloning and DNA/RNA purification
• Maintain different cell lines, including passaging, cryopreservation and thawing
• Produce, purify, and measure the titers of viral preps
• Support in vitro and in vivo virus characterization
• Meet production schedules
• Follow standard operating procedures and good laboratory practices

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 (e.g. Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Neuroscience, or related field)
• Experience in cell culture and molecular biology

Preferred Education and Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in a laboratory or research environment
• 1-2 years of experience with virus production or in vivo/vitro applications
• 1-2 years of experience in epifluorescence or confocal microscopy
• Basic knowledge of brain anatomy

Work Environment

• Working in a Biosafety level II laboratory environment-possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances
• Willingness to receive proper vaccinations prior to work with human cell lines and rabies viruses
• May handle laboratory animals or animal specimens

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands/shoulders to operate lab equipment, computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or reach

Position Type and 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 the flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

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 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.