Job Description

Research Associate I – Neurosurgery & Behavior

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 Neural Dynamics accelerator is to understand how the brain generates flexible behavior. We aim to uncover the algorithms—implemented by dynamics in brain-wide neural circuits—that allow animals to build internal models, process information, and choose actions.

This Research Associate will be part of the Neurosurgery & Behavior team within the Research Operations department in our Neural Dynamics accelerator. Primary responsibilities include performing aseptic stereotaxic surgical procedures, as well as conducting a variety of behavior training regimens on mice. Good judgment and problem-solving skills are required for recognizing process deviations, participating in troubleshooting and procedure optimization, and operation of complex laboratory instrumentation. The ideal candidate will possess excellent manual dexterity, close attention to detail and a desire to work in a deadline-driven, team-science atmosphere.

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

• Perform various aseptic surgical procedures in mice
• Perform various behavioral training regimens with mice
• Involvement in various transgenic technologies employed in the animal facility
• Pre- and post-operative care for mice
• Administration of compounds to mice (i.p., s.c., i.m.)
• Maintenance of health and behavior performance records
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintain good laboratory practices
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and reporting using established methods
• Ability to meet aggressive timelines and deliverables in a collaborative environment

*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
• Prior experience handling rodents (mice or rats)
• Proven ability to learn and perform challenging surgical procedures on mice
• Basic knowledge of mouse genetics and anatomy

Preferred Education and Experience

• Manual dexterity and attention to detail
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Microsoft Access
• Ability to learn custom software systems (LIMS, LabTracks)

Work Environment

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances
• Possible exposure to BioSafety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses

Animal Care Services

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Pre and post-operative care for mice
• Administration of compounds to mice (iv, ip, sc, po, im, ro, icv)
• Perform health assessments of mice
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections
• Perform daily facility maintenance and/or closing procedures

Physical Demands

• Occasional lifting up to 30 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Push/pull up to 20lbs
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This is an essential job and expected to report for work regardless of weather and/or other conditions
• Occasional evening and weekend hours 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.

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.

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.

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