Research Jobs at Allen Institute
The Allen Institute is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate II – High Throughput Screening to join its AI-powered laboratory within SeaHub Scientific. The candidate getting hired for the Research Jobs at Allen Institute should focus on building large-scale biological datasets to train next-generation DNA design and machine learning models. Working at the intersection of synthetic biology, genomics, and artificial intelligence, the Research Associate II will contribute directly to cutting-edge research aimed at advancing human health through open science.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Research Associate II – High Throughput Screening
- Department: SH – SeaHub Scientific
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Work Mode: On-site
- Primary Location: Seattle, Washington (700 Dexter Ave N.)
- Travel: Occasional national and international conferences
- Salary Range: $66,500 – $81,350 annually
About the Company:
The Allen Institute is a non-profit research organization dedicated to unlocking the complexities of bioscience to improve human health. Known for its open science philosophy, the Institute combines academic rigor with start-up-style innovation to accelerate discovery. Its interdisciplinary teams develop foundational biological models, standards, and tools that make a transformational impact on science worldwide. The Institute strongly promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, ensuring science is accessible to everyone.
Educational Requirements for the Research Associate Role:
- Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, Genomics, Bioinformatics, or a related field
- Minimum 2 years of equivalent laboratory experience
- Preferred: 2–5 years of hands-on experience in molecular and cell biology
Key Responsibilities of the Research Associate:
- Maintain and propagate human cell lines
- Perform plasmid DNA transfections and viral transductions
- Clone and screen Massively Parallel Reporter Assay (MPRA) libraries
- Execute advanced genomics protocols (RNA-seq, single-cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, custom amplicon sequencing)
- Perform molecular biology techniques, including cloning, qPCR, ddPCR, and flow cytometry
- Generate Illumina sequencing libraries for machine learning model training
- Troubleshoot NGS library preparation and assay performance
- Analyze data and perform quality control checks
- Develop and optimize new laboratory protocols
- Present experimental results and progress updates to internal teams
- Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and adhere to SOPs and GLP
- Collaborate effectively within cross-functional research teams
Skills Required for the Research Associate Role:
- Strong expertise in molecular biology and cell culture techniques
- Experience with NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows
- Proficiency in cloning methods (Gibson Assembly, Golden Gate, restriction cloning)
- RNA/DNA isolation and PCR techniques
- Experience with flow cytometry and ddPCR
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities
- Excellent documentation and data review skills
- Ability to manage time effectively in a fast-paced research environment
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
Benefits of the Research Jobs at Allen Institute:
- Competitive annual salary package
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Basic life insurance coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Opportunities to attend scientific conferences
- Inclusive, collaborative, and mission-driven work culture
- Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking AI-driven biological research
