Research Associate I – Virus Production
Allen Institute
Summary
The Allen Institute accelerates science for a healthier world through large-scale research designed to answer some of the most complex questions in biology. Our multi-disciplinary teams generate foundational knowledge, tools, and data to understand how our brain, cells, and immune system work.
Job description
We are searching for a Research Associate I to join the Viral Technology team and support the growing demand for viral tools. The candidate will perform laboratory tasks and experiments involving the production, purification, titration, and characterization of AAV viruses, lentiviruses, and rabies viruses. They should follow good laboratory practice, keep accurate records, and be highly motivated to learn new skills.
The Viral Technology team within the Molecular Genetics department supports the needs of multiple teams within the Allen Institute through the production and development of various viral tools. Our main goal is to provide efficient custom recombinant viruses for cell labeling, circuit tracing and functional manipulation in the central nervous system.
Essential Functions
- Molecular cloning and DNA/RNA purification
- Maintain different cell lines, including passaging, cryopreservation and thawing
- Produce, purify, and measure the titers of viral preps
- Support in vitro and in vivo virus characterization
- Meet production schedules
- Follow standard operating procedures and good laboratory practices
Required Education And Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in life sciences (e.g. Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Neuroscience, or related field)
- Experience in cell culture and molecular biology
Preferred Education And Experience
- 1-2 years of experience in a laboratory or research environment
- 1-2 years of experience with virus production or in vivo/vitro applications
- 1-2 years of experience in epifluorescence or confocal microscopy
- Basic knowledge of brain anatomy
Work Environment
- Working in a Biosafety level II laboratory environment-possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances
- Willingness to receive proper vaccinations prior to work with human cell lines and rabies viruses
- May handle laboratory animals or animal specimens
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in life sciences (e.g. Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Virology, Neuroscience, or related field)
- Experience in cell culture and molecular biology
- Molecular cloning and DNA/RNA purification
- Maintain cell lines including passaging, cryopreservation and thawing
- Produce, purify, and measure titers of viral preps
- Support in vitro and in vivo virus characterization
- Follow standard operating procedures and good laboratory practices
- 1-2 years of experience in a laboratory or research environment (preferred)
- 1-2 years of experience with virus production or in vivo/vitro applications (preferred)
- 1-2 years of experience in epifluorescence or confocal microscopy (preferred)
- Basic knowledge of brain anatomy (preferred)
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Basic Life Insurance
- 401(k) Plan
- Paid Time Off
Company overview
The Allen Institute is a premier non-profit research organization founded in 2003 by philanthropist Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, the institute is dedicated to answering fundamental questions in biology and accelerating scientific discovery through large-scale, collaborative research projects. The organization operates several major research divisions including the Allen Institute for Brain Science, Allen Institute for Cell Science, and Allen Institute for Immunology. The Allen Institute is renowned for creating comprehensive, open-access data resources and tools for the global scientific community, such as the Allen Brain Atlas, which provides detailed maps of gene expression in the mouse and human brain. Their research approach combines experimental biology with computational analysis and data science to generate transformative insights into complex biological systems. The institute's work has significantly advanced understanding of brain function, cellular biology, and immune system dynamics, making it a leading force in modern biomedical research with a strong commitment to open science and data sharing.