Senior Research Assistant - Allen Discovery Center

The Allen Discovery Center is dedicated to the advancement of basic biology and biomedicine, and to using an integrated approach to control biological structure and function. Through a combination of molecular genetics, biophysics, and computational approaches, researchers at the Center work toward multi-level control of patterning. Novel technology is being developed to modulate the bioelectric communication that enables cells to coordinate their activities toward specific anatomical and functional outcomes. Applications in progress include the repair of birth defects, regenerative medicine, cancer reprogramming, and synthetic biology.

The Senior Research Assistant will play a key role in advancing research initiatives within the Levin Lab. This project focuses on the development of Xenobots and related synthetic living systems as biosensors, with applications in environmental sensing, synthetic biology, and regenerative medicine. The Research Assistant will:

• Develop and test protocols for Xenobot fabrication and behavior tracking, analyze physiological and behavioral data, and support machine learning pipelines for pattern recognition and predictive modeling.
• Assist in training junior staff and managing laboratory operations.
• In collaboration with Principal Investigator develops and modifies techniques and protocols and provides input into research design.
• Works independently performing a wide range of specialized techniques and experiments.
• Analyzes data, interprets results and assists in writing materials for publication and presentation.
• May supervise or provide work direction to others in the laboratory and helps manage laboratory operations.

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired by a Master's degree in science and at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in a related field of research
• Demonstrated experience in managing and directing basic science research studies and lab operations.
• Strong organizational, communication, and data management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of and experience with advanced laboratory techniques and procedures, data interpretation and statistical analysis
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, microscopy, and bioassay design
• Familiarity with calcium imaging, synthetic biology, and gene expression systems (e.g., mRNA microinjection)

Special Work Schedule Requirements:

May work with and be exposed to hazardous chemicals and materials, human/animal tissue and fluids, radiation.