Research Associate II – In vivo Electrophysiology & Behavior

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 Neural Dynamics is focused on fundamental discoveries in systems neuroscience.

We are interested in how the brain builds our understanding of the complex world to guide the flexible behaviors that address our biological needs. The answers will be in terms of defined neuron types and circuits interacting across the whole brain and body. We will develop next‑generation methods and theories and employ a team‑based approach to discovery neuroscience. Knowledge, data, models, and tools will be widely shared to support the development of therapies for brain disorders.

We are seeking a Research Associate to contribute to projects seeking to decipher the neural mechanisms of flexible decision‑making in mice. This position will leverage state‑of‑the‑art electrophysiological methods, such as Neuropixels probes, as well as molecular and transgenic tools. The goal is to record simultaneously from many anatomically connected regions while mice are engaged in a variety of cognitive tasks. The ideal candidate will be team‑oriented and have extensive experience in electrophysiological techniques.

The Research Associate will work alongside a diverse team of Scientists, Technicians, Engineers, and Investigators, and so collaboration and communication skills are key.

• Perform experiments using in vivo electrophysiology, carefully controlled mouse behavior, and neural manipulations
• Collaborate with scientists to develop and evaluate new behavioral tasks and associated methods for data collection, quantification, and analysis
• Collaborate internally and externally to analyze physiology and behavior data
• Additional tasks may include histology and/or surgery
• Participate in weekly lab meetings
• Train team members to perform procedures

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 Neuroscience, Biology, or related discipline
• 2 years of relevant experience

• 3 years of experience with in vivo electrophysiology in rodent models
• Surgical experience in rodents
• Rodent handling and training experience
• Ability to write reusable code in Python or Matlab

• May enter laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards
• Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required

• Daily exposure to and handling of laboratory animals required
• Pre and post‑operative care for mice
• Administration of compounds to mice (iv, ip, sc, po, im, ro, icv)
• Perform health assessments of mice
• Perform euthanasia and tissue collections
• Perform daily vivarium maintenance and/or closing procedures

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment; repetitive motion with lab equipment
• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders

• 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 Health Provider and receive clearance to work with animals. Depending on your health history and job responsibilities, an annual respiratory health screening and clearance to use a respirator may also be required.

• Please note, this opportunity does not offer…