Research Associate I – In Vivo Electrophysiology & Behavior

The Allen Institute is seeking a Research Associate to contribute to a set of projects focusing on recording the activity of thousands of neurons distributed across multiple brain regions in parallel. The ideal candidate will be team-oriented, have knowledge in neuroscience and behavior, and display a strong interest in studying brain-wide circuits during behavior.

About the Role

The Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics is dedicated to fundamental discoveries in systems neuroscience. The position leverages state-of-the-art electrophysiological methods, such as Neuropixels probes, to record simultaneously from many anatomically connected regions while mice engage in various cognitive tasks. The Research Associate will work alongside a diverse team of Scientists, Technicians, Engineers, and Investigators, emphasizing collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collect in vivo electrophysiological, optogenetics, and/or optical physiological data from mouse cortex using cutting-edge recording systems
• Train mice to perform various foraging behavioral tasks
• Participate in lab maintenance and weekly tasks
• Carry out analyses to assess overall data quality and use this information to update and refine experimental protocols
• Use histological techniques to identify probe recording location

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience or a related field
• Two years of experience in a research lab
• Experience working with mice greatly preferred
• Practical experience in in vivo electrophysiology and/or mouse behavior
• Strong scientific communication skills (written and oral)
• Ability to work in a team-based environment
• Experience with rodent surgeries

Qualifications

• Preferably, 2 years of experience in a research lab
• Practical experience in in vivo electrophysiology and/or mouse behavior
• Strong scientific communication skills (written and oral)
• Ability to work in a team-based environment
• Experience with rodent surgeries

Skills

• Collaboration and communication skills
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

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 401(k) plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institute’s 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.