Scientist I - Single-cell Genomics and Bioinformatics

Scientist I – Single-cell genomics and bioinformatics – Molecular Genetics

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.

The Molecular Genetics department at the Allen Institute for Brain Science defines cell types in the mouse nervous system with single-cell genomics techniques and generates high-precision genetic tools to effectively identify, monitor, and manipulate distinct neuronal cell types.

We seek an exceptional Scientist I who will work in the Molecular Genetics department on analysis of single-cell transcriptomics and spatial transcriptomics data in the peripheral nervous system. The candidate should have an exceptionally strong background in bioinformatics and single-cell genomics. They will work closely with team members to analyze various types of single-cell genomics data to define neuronal types, interrogate functional connectivity, and help design genetic tools to access these cell types. This individual should be highly efficient, capable of working independently, and collaborative. This individual will be an excellent communicator, efficient in both independent work and collaborations with others.

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.

Essential Functions

• Support initiatives across the Allen Institute for Brain Science, Allen Institute for Neural Dynamics and Allen Institute for Immunology to create reference atlases for cells in the peripheral nervous system using single-cell genomic data
• Apply and adapt existing computational and experimental approaches to integrate gene expression and epigenetic information from a variety of single-cell genomic datasets
• Collaborate with team members to interpret biological findings from data and contribute ideas for follow-up experiments, gaining independence and autonomy over time
• Learn and apply analytical methods for defining cell types and predicting enhancer activity from single-cell data and for supporting the development of genetic tools that mark distinct functional or anatomical cell types
• Contribute to computational method development for single-cell genomics, under the guidance of team leads
• Present research findings regularly to internal team members and stakeholders; contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, grant proposals, and external presentations

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Required Education And Experience

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Genomics, Neuroscience or related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• Demonstrated experience with single-cell genomics analysis or large-scale data analysis
• Proficiency in programming languages and tools (R, Python, cloud computing)
• Proficiency in AI tool use, and interest in AI tool development

Preferred Education And Experience

• Experience in reproducibly analyzing large single-cell and spatial genomics (transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics) datasets
• Experience integrating spatial data with single-cell genomics approaches
• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment to meet demanding timelines
• Positive attitude, self-motivated, and demonstrated ability to creatively troubleshoot
• Proven strong publication record
• Knowledge of mouse molecular genetics, neuroscience, and neuroanatomy
• Exceptional oral and written communication and organizational skills

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently able to work both remotely and onsite in a hybrid work environment. We are a Washin