Research Associate I � Lab Animal Services

Allen Institute•Seattle, WA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Allen Institute is dedicated to accelerating scientific discovery for a healthier world by conducting large-scale research to address complex biological questions. Our interdisciplinary teams generate essential knowledge, tools, and data to understand the brain, cells, and immune system. We openly share our findings to facilitate faster progress and enable more ambitious research by others. The Administration team's mission is to support the Institute's people and science by connecting teams, managing resources, and establishing robust systems that provide stability and flexibility for ambitious research, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and open sharing of work. Lab Animal Services (LAS) consists of Technical Services and Veterinary Services, which collaborate to support animal care and research operations. Technical Services focuses on tissue collection and compound administration, while Veterinary Services handles animal examination, monitoring, and treatment. Although employees are typically hired and trained within one specialty, Research Associates share a common job framework and may assist with cross-team tasks based on their training and experience. The essential functions outlined below are applicable to all LAS Research Associates. We are seeking a Research Associate I to perform various laboratory tasks and experiments in a high-throughput laboratory and animal care setting, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This role requires good judgment and problem-solving skills to identify and report process deviations, non-compliance with animal use protocols, and to operate complex laboratory instrumentation. The Research Associate I is expected to comply with regulatory requirements, follow SOPs, and work effectively within a team. Excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a deadline-driven environment are mandatory. The Research Associate I will handle mice with minimal to no supervision for procedural tasks. The Allen Institute is committed to the principle that science is for everyone and should be accessible to all. We actively work to combat biases and reduce barriers to STEM careers, recognizing that diverse perspectives enhance scientific progress. We aim to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to perform their best work. We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a life science or related field
Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail
Knowledge of mouse genetics, anatomy, and behavior
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Intermediate level ability with Microsoft Office, Office 365 and SharePoint
Ability to learn other custom software systems (LIMS, LabTracks)
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.
Employees assigned to duties requiring tight-fitting respiratory protection must successfully complete applicable medical clearance and respirator fit testing.
When performing these duties, employees must maintain facial hair in a manner that does not interfere with the respirator fit, face seal, or valve function.

Nice To Haves

2+ years of related work experience and/or training
AALAS certification is a plus
Experience with creating and maintaining Power Apps and Power Automate

Responsibilities

Administration of compounds to mice (iv, ip, sc, po, im, ro, icv)
Perform euthanasia and tissue collections
Unwell animal triage
Pre- and post-operative care for mice
Follow SOPs, Work Instructions, Technical Guidance, IACUC protocols, and regulatory requirements
Perform SOP and non-SOP procedures under limited supervision and/or guidance
Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and reporting using established methods
Work with Supervisor to adhere to appropriate management and prioritization of tasks and time, including daily and weekly scheduling
Communicate clearly and professionally with stakeholders, both in writing and verbally, regarding assigned tasks and responsibilities
Perform daily vivarium maintenance, and any shift specific operational procedures after training
Other duties as assigned