Scientist - Connectomics

Scientist I, Connectomics – Allen Institute for Brain Science

The mission of the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the brain works in health and disease. Using a big science approach, we generate useful public resources, drive technological and analytical advances, and discover fundamental brain properties. Built on the foundational knowledge of brain cell types, the institute conducts large-scale projects designed to create CAP (Complete, Accurate, Permanent) datasets and experimental tools;

gain fundamental knowledge in development, evolution, connectivity and function of brain cell types; move towards a better understanding of mammalian brain function in healthy and diseased conditions; and disseminate data, knowledge and tools broadly with the community to accelerate neuroscience research.

We are seeking an exceptional individual to develop innovative sectioning techniques for a large scale Electron Microscopy pipeline. The scientist will join a team responsible for scaling and automating the cutting of whole mouse brain samples prepared for Electron Microscopy. This will involve developing and optimizing robotic components to carefully control a nanometer-scale mechanical process over centimeter-scale ultrathin sections across thousands of iterations.

The goal is to create technologies that allow the complete mapping of synaptic connectivity of individual neurons across the entire mouse brain. The scientist will be an essential member of the Connectomics department studying cell types and will also have opportunities for data analysis in later phases of the project.

The team already includes several Electron Microscopy experts and therefore welcomes applicants who are new to electron microscopy but have a strong interest in automation and the project goals.

Examples of our previous work related to this position can be found on the Allen Institute site. We believe science should be open to everyone and strive to reduce biases and barriers to STEM careers, and to include diverse perspectives and voices so that everyone belongs and can do their best work in a supportive environment. We are an equal-opportunity employer and strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for open positions.

• Collaborate with others to further scale cutting whole mouse brain samples for electron microscopy
• Automate ultramicrotome cutting serial sections for volumetric Electron Microscopy
• Robotic manipulation for section delivery with high precision and minimal section loss
• Publish/present findings in peer-reviewed journals/scientific conferences

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.

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• Strong background in automation or robotics
• Strong programming skills (please share Git Hub repository as part of job application)
• Experience with software engineering best practices (e.g. version control and code reviews)

• Experience in Connectomics
• Strong publication record
• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment to meet aggressive timelines
• Exceptional oral and written communication and organizational skills
• Ability to guide teams and coordinate activities within and across institutions, including coaching/mentoring junior members
• Laboratory environment – often entering labs where experiments take place
• Laboratory environment - possible chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances exposure
• This may include wearing personnel protective equipment (PPE)
• Working at a desk with computer analyzing data

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment.

• This role is currently required to work onsite. We are a Washington…