Director, Quantitative Cellular Imaging

Director, Quantitative Cellular Imaging – Cell Science

The goal of Allen Institute for Cell Science is to develop a comprehensive and holistic approach to measure, describe, and model cell states and their dynamic changes over time with the ultimate goal of uncovering the fundamental principles of multiscale, multicellular morphogenesis, including how groups of cells organize and achieve collective behaviors essential for life. Our approach encompasses multi-modal data collection including live 3D timelapse imaging, data analysis, theory, and predictions to understand cell states and cell state transitions in human induced pluripotent stem cell models. As a division within the Allen Institute, the Allen Institute for Cell Science uses a team-oriented approach, focusing on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a transformational impact on science.

The Allen Institute for Cell Science is seeking an outstanding, goal-oriented, highly motivated Director, Quantitative Cellular Imaging, to drive our efforts to ideate, invent, scale, and implement quantitative cellular imaging assays from initial cell line creation through image data collection using different stem cell models. This is an exciting and rare opportunity for a generalist to contribute to the Allen Institute for Cell Science’s transformative vision of cellular biology. The Director, Quantitative Cellular Imaging, works closely with Program Management and Leadership to further develop and then implement the Institute’s mission and milestones based on Leadership’s strategic vision. They will also lead a diverse team of subject matter experts, ranging from experimental and quantitative researchers to microscope instrument specialists.

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.

Responsibilities include:

Leadership and Strategy

• Provide strategic direction for experimental cell biology and quantitative imaging efforts in alignment with the Institute research goals
• Keep up to date with the newest developments in quantitative cell biology and live imaging modalities
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment that encourages creativity and innovation
• Work closely with Leadership and Program Management to develop, communicate, implement, and drive Leadership’s strategic vision forward

Research and Development

• Oversee the implementation of quantitative image-based assays from initial cell line creation through image data acquisition toward producing multi-modal, integratable data (e.g. imaging data paired with “omics” data) for image analysis, and descriptive and explanatory modeling
• Develop a roadmap and proposals for cell line, assays, and imaging-based efforts, identify technical risks and dependencies in the planning process, ensuring timely mitigation with Program Management
• Develop a roadmap and implementation plan for cutting-edge microscope modalities as needed to meet the scientific goals of the Institute
• Work with fellow directors of synthetic biology, quantitative image analysis & descriptive modeling, explanatory modeling and software engineering as well as other stakeholders to prioritize, plan and implement experimental image-based assay efforts

Management and Mentorship

• Manage experimental and quantitative (joint experimental and computational) management teams, individual researchers, and microscope instrument specialists, providing guidance, mentorship, professional growth and skill development and performance feedback
• Scientifically supervise scientists/subject matter experts as appropriate for their specific projects
• Oversee the recruitment, training, and professional development of team members
• Foster a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within the team and within the Institute

Dissemination and Collaboration

• Actively participate in scientific conferences and workshops, presenting research findings and networking with the research community
• Establish and maintain collaborations with external researchers and institutions
• Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through publications, presentations, and other channels

Required Education and Experience

• PhD degree in biological science (e.g., cell biology, developmental biology, biophysics, bioengineering), physical science, or related science, engineering or related field or equivalent combination of degree and experience required
• Established as an expert in cell biology with publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Minimum 7 years of professional, post-PhD experience in quantitative cell biology
• Proven leadership qualities with at least 3 years of independent supervisory experience (such as in a laboratory head/PI role)

Preferred Education and Experience

• Minimum 10 years of professional, post-degree experience in quantitative cell biology
• Extensive experience with 3D, live fluorescent imaging modalities
• Extensive experience developing quantitative image-based assays to generate integratable, multi-modal data (e.g. imaging data paired with “omics” data)
• Experience working with standardization in imaging assays, including metadata and data management
• Experience working in 3D stem cell models
• Experience developing cell models for imaging assays
• Experience implementing and maintaining microscope infrastructure
• Experience in image analysis
• Experience working in dynamic, fast-paced research environments with a start-up and growth mindset
• Strong collaboration skills, including working with program managers and diverse subject matter experts
• Proven ability to manage projects and people at multiple levels within a multidisciplinary team
• Extensive experience in manuscript writing and collaborative grant writing
• Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills, with strong interpersonal skills for cross-team coordination

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of working hours. The primary work location for this role is 615 Westlake Ave N., with the flexibility to work remotely on a limited basis.

Travel

• Attendance and participation in national and international conferences required

Additional Comments

• **Please note, this opportunity offers relocation assistance**
• **Please note, this opportunity offers work visa sponsorship**

Annualized Salary Range

• $206,450 - $270,900 *

* Final salary depends on the required education for the role, experience, level of skills relevant to the role, and work location, where applicable.

Benefits

• Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institute’s 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institutes Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institute’s benefits offering are located at the following link to the Benefits Guide: https://alleninstitute.org/careers/benefits.

It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities

Salary : $206,450 - $270,900