Postbaccalaureate Research Assistant – Brain Science / Establishment of gene imputation methods for imaging-based spatial transcriptomics

Postbaccalaureate Research Assistant – Brain Science / Establishment of gene imputation methods for imaging-based spatial transcriptomics

The mission of the Allen Institute is to unlock the complexities of bioscience and advance our knowledge to improve human health. Using an open science, multi-scale, team-oriented approach, the Allen Institute focuses on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a broad, transformational impact on science.

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.

We are seeking a Postbaccalaureate Research Assistant to help establish gene imputation methods for imaging-based spatial transcriptomics. Imaging-based spatial transcriptomics methods are limited in the number of genes being profiled and gene imputation methods promise to alleviate this problem. In this role the candidate will a) generate a novel benchmarking dataset specifically designed for the imputation problem and b) systematically evaluate existing external and internal gene imputation methods.

The Allen Institute believes that team science significantly benefits from the participation of diverse voices, experiences and backgrounds. High-quality science can only be produced when it includes different perspectives. We are committed to increasing diversity across every team and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for this role.

Applications must be received by January 7, 2025, to be considered.

Educational Objectives

• Hands-on experience in spatial transcriptomics
• Best practices in bioinformatics
• Functional understanding of neuroscience
• Understanding the relationship between gene expression and neuroanatomy

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree
• Demonstrated commitment to science
• Basic knowledge of cell biology
• Experience with programming in R or Python

Work Environment

• Open office seating
• May enter laboratory environment, including potential exposure to lasers, biohazards

Physical Demands

• Stooping, bending, crouching
• Reaching, or climbing ladders
• Occasional exposure to safety hazards, noises, change in temperature, climbing and/or lifting (30+lbs), chemicals, and other hazardous materials and machinery
• Exposure to Class IV lasers
• Must be able to resolve red/green colors
• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment, lab equipment

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• 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 flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Completed a bachelor’s degree (or will have completed by the start of the program) and does not have an advanced degree in the role’s relevant STEM field
• Must be able to start in June or July 2025 and commit to the full one-year program, which will end on Friday, May 29, 2026
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. for the program duration
• Must be 18 years of age or older

Additional Comments

• Postbacs are expected to participate as fully-engaged team members, attending and participating in team meetings, presenting on their work, etc.
• Aside from program activities, postbacs are expected to work full-time as regular team members unless otherwise approved by their manager
• **Please note, this opportunity offers relocation and housing assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity requires U.S work authorization and does not sponsor work visas**

Annualized Salary

• $59,280 (non-negotiable)

Benefits

• Postbacs (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institute’s 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institutes Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institute’s benefits offering are located at the following link to the Benefits Guide: https://alleninstitute.org/careers/benefits.

It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.