Allen Institute for Brain Science

Postdoctoral Fellow, Cell Imaging & Neurobiology

The Allen Institute for Brain Science, located in Seattle, Washington, is comprised of a multidisciplinary staff committed to understanding how the brain works and helping to unlock the mysteries of neurological diseases and disorders affecting millions worldwide. Serving the scientific community is at the center of our mission to accelerate progress toward understanding the brain and neurological systems. Creating tools and data that advance the pursuits of thousands and thousands of scientists around the world is our contribution to revolutionary neuroscience. To this end, the Allen Institute's resources—each a groundbreaking creation—are free and publicly available online. We have the following, full-time job opportunity for a Post-Doctoral Fellow – Cell Imaging & Neurobiology in our Methods Development group:

Department: 273

POSITION SUMMARY:

This hands-on, postgraduate laboratory staff position encompasses a number of key R&D activities in support of a fast-paced data production environment. These areas include evaluation and development of new technologies in cell and/or viral culture assay systems, histology, microscopy, specimen processing, testing and standardizing protocols. The incumbent will perform his/her duties with minimal or no supervision, and will also be responsible for assisting junior personnel. Publication of work will be expected.

Strong personal and task-oriented time management skills are essential, and industrial research experience is beneficial. Incumbent must have the ability to be self-motivated and to make strong teamoriented contributions. Preference will be given to those with a desire to work in an applied, cooperative R&D industrial setting, and with advanced training in neurobiology, virology, microscopy or mechanical engineering (academic or industrial).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design, develop and test new technologies and experimental solutions in virology, histology, specimen processing and microscopy.
• Work both independently and with stakeholders to lead projects and to develop new or improve existing methodologies and techniques.
• Design novel project workflows, test methods hands-on, draft new SOPs or revise existing SOPs and interface with colleagues at other laboratories.
• Coordinate and manage tasks as assigned, and identify new areas where action is required.
• Assist with designing SOPs for document control processes.
• Direct and assist experimental and equipment troubleshooting efforts within the department.
• Assist and train members of the Methods Development, R&D, Production and Process Engineering teams, as necessary.
• Document work and prepare written and oral reports and publications with accuracy and reliability.
• Other responsibilities may include assistance with general lab management tasks including maintaining technical instrumentation/equipment and troubleshooting problems.
• Other tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven scientific accomplishments through peer-reviewed scientific publications, presentations at scientific conferences and/or technology patents.
• Strong organizational skills and careful attention to detail.
• Collaborative and inclusive approach to work.

Required Computer Skills:

• MS Office 2007.
• Adobe PhotoShop and/or Illustrator.
• Familiarity with at least one programming language (C, MatLab, R, Perl, etc.).
• Proficiency in at least one microscopy software platform (ie, Leica, Nikon, Olympus).

Education/Experience/Certifications:

• MD or PhD in Biology, Chemistry or Engineering field with 2+ years postgraduate work experience.
• Experience/expertise in molecular biology techniques, in situ hybridization, virology, immunohistochemistry, cell biology, general histology, cryosectioning, light and fluorescence microscopy, cellular imaging and rodent experimental models.
• Additional expertise with some or all of the following skills is also essential: Computer-assisted image analysis systems, image and data handling and analysis, confocal microscopy and/or twophoton microscopy.
• Other desirable skills include experience with viruses, developmental biology, animal neurosurgery, electrophysiology, software programming, equipment customization or engineering.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Laboratory atmosphere - exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances.
• Working at computer for extended periods of time.
• May be required to be available outside of standard working hours.
• Travel up to 2 – 4 times/year.

To apply for this opportunity, please go to the Careers page on our website:

Allen Institute for Brain Science
Reference Job Code: 0610-02

Allen Institute for Brain Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Submitted: 06/09/2010