Laboratory Aide – Seattle Hub Synthetic Biology

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Laboratory Aide – Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology

The mission of the Allen Institute is to unlock the complexities of bioscience and advance our knowledge to improve human health. Using an open science, multi-scale, team-oriented approach, the Allen Institute focuses on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a broad, transformational impact on science.

Join the Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology (Sea Hub), a new initiative at the intersection of academic creativity and start-up style execution. Our mission is to reimagine living cells and genomes as devices for recording biology and diagnostic information over time, as well as for encoding real-time therapeutic decision-making. Take off with us as we imagine — and create — a kind of cellular flight recorder that can also seize the controls.

Be part of a small dynamic team on the ground floor of a new program with world-class scientists.

Sea Hub is looking for a lab aide to join our growing lab team. The laboratory aide is an entry-level position responsible for executing repetitive laboratory tasks and lab operations tasks in a quickly changing, methods-diverse laboratory environment. These tasks will likely follow strict Standard Operating Procedures. Good judgment is required for recognizing and reporting process deviations. Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently in a repetitive task environment are mandatory.

This position includes the opportunity to gain experience in a laboratory research environment, and grow into execution of more advanced laboratory tasks, methods, and operations responsibilities over time.

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

• Follow SOPs and good laboratory practices
• Maintain lab hygiene, equipment maintenance, and organization
• Perform routine molecular biology and tissue culture tasks (as needed and after training)
• Receive shipments and stocking reagents
• Communicate clearly and accurately with supervisor
• Maintain high quality standard of work
• Complete routine tasks with minimal supervision
• Manage time appropriately

Duties and Responsibilities

Materials & Inventory Management (Quartzy & Benchling): Ensures accurate tracking, organization, and availability of materials needed for day-to-day operations.

• Receive, verify, and document incoming materials and supplies
• Maintain accurate digital records and inventory databases
• Register samples or materials in tracking systems to support traceability
• Conduct regular inventory checks and coordinate timely replenishment

Workspace & Operational Support: Helps maintain a clean, organized, and efficient environment to support smooth workflow across the team.

• Support general workspace organization and routine upkeep
• Restock shared supplies and ensure key consumables remain accessible
• Assist with routine operational tasks that contribute to overall workflow efficiency

Procurement Assistance :
Supports purchasing activities to ensure necessary equipment and supplies are obtained efficiently.

• Gather product information, quotes, and vendor details
• Prepare and submit purchase or order requests
• Assist in tracking orders and coordinating deliveries as needed

Safety & Compliance: Contributes to a safe and compliant work environment through proper handling and documentation practices.

• Assist with routine safety checks, audits, and compliance activities
• Support proper handling and disposal of waste materials…