Scientist I - Brain Proteome Organization

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. We share our work openly so others can build on it, move faster, and ask bigger questions. We drive discovery forward and create new possibilities for improving human health.

The goal of the Brain Science accelerator is to produce three interlocking resources: cell type atlases that catalog every kind of brain cell across ages and species, connectomes that chart the brain's intricate wiring, and a knowledge platform that knits it all together with powerful analysis tools. Every dataset is freely shared, so discoveries made here fuel discoveries everywhere.

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.

The candidate will focus on developing and applying scalable approaches for synapse proteomics to reveal principles of synaptic molecular organization. In addition to working within the research team, the candidate will collaborate closely with teams and core facilities across the Allen Institute that support large-scale experimental and computational neuroscience. We welcome candidates from diverse scientific backgrounds, who may bring their own questions and expertise into the field.

At the Allen Institute, we believe that science is for everyone – and should be open to everyone. We are dedicated to combating biases and reducing barriers to STEM careers more broadly.

We also believe that science is better when it includes different perspectives and voices. We strive to make the Allen Institute a place where everyone feels like they belong and are empowered to do their best work in a supportive environment.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

• 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

*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 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• Occasional travel to partner sites for compliance oversight required
• Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required

• 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 offers relocation assistance
• Please note, this opportunity may offer work visa sponsorship

$86,150 - $106,650*

* Final salary depends on the required education for the role, experience, level of skills relevant to the role, and work location, where applicable.