Research Associate II – Viral Tools

At the Allen Institute, we accelerate science for a healthier world through large-scale research designed to answer complex questions in biology. Our multidisciplinary teams generate foundational knowledge, tools, and data to understand how the brain, cells, and immune system work. We share our work openly to enable faster progress and bigger discoveries that improve human health.

About the role

The Brain Health accelerator aims to revolutionize the treatment of brain diseases by creating dual-use molecular tools that reveal cell diversity in the human brain and enable targeted treatments. We seek an experienced Research Associate to support the characterization of novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors designed to target specific brain cell types for functional analysis and manipulation.

The successful candidate will join the Brain Health team and contribute to studies evaluating AAV tropism, biodistribution, and transgene expression across mouse, non-human primate, and human brain tissue, with a primary focus on non-human primate studies.

Responsibilities

• Assist with brain tissue collection and processing
• Plan and execute multiplexed fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH/RNAscope) and immunohistochemistry staining of brain tissue
• Support non-human primate (NHP) in vivo virus injection surgeries using a robotic injection platform
• Evaluate cell type specificity using fluorescence microscopy, antibody staining, and image analysis with ImageJ and/or Python
• Apply quantitative approaches for assessing cell type specificity of labeling (with training)
• Generate data summaries in PowerPoint and Excel for team evaluation
• Present periodic progress summaries to the research community
• Maintain rigorous standards, including detailed lab notebook records of all experiments
• Contribute to progress reports, scientific publications, and grant applications

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, or a related field
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant laboratory research experience
• Hands-on experience with brain tissue processing, including sectioning using a microtome and/or cryostat
• Experience performing histological techniques, including immunohistochemistry and multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH/RNAscope)
• Experience with tissue imaging using epifluorescence and/or confocal microscopy, and quantitative image analysis
• Experience performing quantitative image analysis, including brain cell quantification

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, milestone-driven research environment
• Ability to develop, document, and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Basic knowledge of macaque neuroanatomy and stereotaxic injection techniques
• Experience working with non-human primate brain tissue
• Experience working with viral vectors and/or viral delivery methods in rodents or non-human primates
• Experience with ImageJ, Python, or other quantitative image analysis software

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards, and live animals
• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Pre- and post-operative care for mice
• Administration of compounds to mice (intraperitoneal, retro-orbital, and intracerebroventricular)
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections

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

Schedule

• Full-time employment; 40-hour work week typically Monday-Friday during regular business hours
• Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required
• This role is primarily onsite at 615 Westlake Ave N., with limited remote work flexibility subject to manager approval

Pay

Annualized salary range: $66,500 - $81,350. Final salary depends on education, experience, skills relevant to the role, and work location.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance
• 401k plan enrollment
• Paid time off as outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide

All employees who work with live animals must complete an Occupational Health medical history form and/or consultation and receive clearance. Depending on health history and job responsibilities, an annual respiratory health screening and respirator clearance may be required.