Scientist I - Brain Proteome Organization
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. The goal of the Brain Science accelerator is to produce three interlocking resources: cell type atlases, connectomes, and a knowledge platform.
Job description
We are seeking a Scientist I to join a research team focused on understanding how the proteome of neuronal populations and their synapses shapes brain circuit function. The team develops scalable synapse proteomics and systems-level analysis to understand how the proteome and protein interactions determine synapse-type specific physiology and circuit connectivity.
Essential Functions
- Lead projects focused on understanding proteome organization across neuronal populations and synapse types in the brain
- Design and perform scalable synapse type-specific proteomics experiments
- Develop and apply next-generation workflows for synapse isolation and proteomic analysis
- Analyze and integrate large-scale proteomic datasets with multimodal structural and functional data
- Coordinate with internal teams and core facilities to acquire and process experimental data
- Develop and improve computational and statistical strategies for data production and processing
- Monitor and manage data acquisition, storage and deposition
- Publish and present findings in peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences
- Execute collaborative projects within the team, across teams, and/or with external collaborators
Required Education And Experience
- Ph.D. in STEM (i.e. Neuroscience, Biology, or related field); or equivalent combination of degree and experience
- Proven strong publication record
- Experimental experience in lab-based research and molecular methods
- Experience in R and/or python
Preferred Education And Experience
- Experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomic workflows
- Experience with large-scale biological datasets and statistical analysis
- Broad understanding of the principles of the nervous system across scales from molecules to circuits
- Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment
- Positive attitude, self-starter, demonstrated attention to detail, and ability to troubleshoot
Work Environment
- Exposure to and handling of laboratory animals
- Laboratory environment - possible chemical, biological, or other hazardous substances exposure
- Possible exposure to BioSafety Level 2 organisms, such as recombinant viruses
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
Occasional evening and weekend hours required. 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.
Travel
Occasional travel to partner sites for compliance oversight required. Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in STEM (Neuroscience, Biology, or related field) or equivalent combination of degree and experience
- Proven strong publication record
- Experimental experience in lab-based research and molecular methods
- Experience in R and/or Python
- Experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomic workflows (preferred)
- Experience with large-scale biological datasets and statistical analysis (preferred)
- Broad understanding of the principles of the nervous system across scales from molecules to circuits (preferred)
- Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment (preferred)
- Positive attitude, self-starter, attention to detail, and ability to troubleshoot (preferred)
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Basic Life Insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid Time Off
- Relocation Assistance
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.