Research Associate – Viral Genetic Tools

Research Associate I – Viral Genetic Tools

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The mission of the Allen Institute is to understand the principles that govern life and to advance health. Our creative and multi‑dimensional teams focus on answering some of the biggest questions in bioscience. We accelerate foundational research, catalyze bold ideas, develop tools and models, and openly share our science to make a broad, transformational impact on the world. The mission of the Allen Institute for Brain Science is to accelerate the understanding of how the human 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 through integration of experiments, modeling, and theory.

• Design and construct viral vector plasmids using molecular cloning techniques
• Work with cell cultures to produce viral vectors
• Handle brain tissue to evaluate transgene expression in the brain, using fluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (mFISH)
• Manage characterization efforts conducted by our core teams and coordinate activities with key stakeholders
• Carefully follow existing methods and SOPs and propose modifications and improvements
• Maintain meticulous experimental records with a strong sense of responsibility, accountability, and integrity
• Strong time management skills with the capacity to prioritize work from multiple projects

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.

• Bachelor’s degree in life science (e.g., Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Genetics) or related field
• Experience with plasmid construct design: PCR; restriction digestion; cloning;
  Gibson assembly; DNA sequencing
• Proficiency using Vector Builder / Snap Gene / Geneious platforms for molecular cloning and sequence analysis
• Experience in standard histological techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, RNA in situ hybridization, etc.)

• 2 years of lab experience
• Experience performing invasive live animal procedures, such as injections (intraperitoneal, retro‑orbital or stereotaxic) and transcardial perfusions
• Experience in standard histological techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, RNA in situ hybridization, etc.)
• Experience with standard tissue culture techniques
• Ability to design and troubleshoot complex experiments

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Laboratory environment – possible chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances exposure
• Possible exposure to Bio Safety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses
• This may include wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) – including respiratory protection for long periods of time
• Working with dry ice or liquid nitrogen
• Sample handling of the following material, including but not limited to: human whole blood, PBMC, plasma, nucleic acids, and cells

• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Administration of compounds to mice (IV, IP, SC, PO, IM, RO, ICV)
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections

• Occasional lifting up to 10 pounds
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment, repetitive motion with laboratory equipment
• Push/pull up to 5 pounds
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

• 100% experimental work in a laboratory
• 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 the flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

• All employees who work with live animals must complete an Occupational Health medical history form and/or consultation with an Occupational…