Scientist I - Neuromodulation Anatomy: Multimodal Data Integration

Scientist I – Neuromodulation Anatomy: Multimodal Data Integration

The Allen Institute accelerates science for a healthier world through large-scale research designed to answer some of the most complex questions in biology. Our multi-disciplinary teams generate foundational knowledge, tools, and data to understand how our brain, cells, and immune system work. We share our work openly so others can build on it, move faster, and ask bigger questions. We drive discovery forward and create new possibilities for improving human health.

The goal of the Neural Dynamics accelerator is to understand how the brain generates flexible behavior. We aim to uncover the algorithms—implemented by dynamics in brain-wide neural circuits—that allow animals to build internal models, process information, and choose actions.

We are seeking an exceptional scientist to join the Neuromodulation, specifically to create a comprehensively map of the structural organization of neuromodulatory systems in the mouse brain. Neuromodulators such as norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine are released by small populations of neurons yet exert widespread effects on neural dynamics and behavior. Recent research has begun to reveal substantial diversity among neuromodulatory neurons. Uncovering the structural, molecular, and functional relationships among these cell types is critical to understanding neuromodulation.

The project brings together transcriptomic, morphological, and connectivity datasets being generated at the Allen Institute to uncover the organizational principles of neuromodulatory systems. The scientist will work closely with experimentalists and develop and apply advanced statistical, computational, ML and AI methods to analyze multimodal data including single cell transcriptomics, single neuron reconstructions, input and output connectivity, and in vitro and in vivo physiology.

A central biological question is how neuronal properties measured across these modalities align to define functionally relevant cell types. This role offers substantial scope to think deeply about this question and develop conceptual and quantitative frameworks to address it. The scientist will lead the project’s multimodal integration and analysis efforts in close collaboration with experimental and computational teams across the Allen Institute. They will be expected to produce foundational knowledge and openly shared datasets on the structural organization of neuromodulation. For an example of this approach to integrating multimodal neuronal data, see Su et al. Nature 2026.

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

• Help lead a research project to establish foundational knowledge of mammalian neuromodulatory cell types
• Develop and devise conceptual and quantitative frameworks for understanding how neuronal properties measured across modalities relate to cell type identity and function
• Conduct in-depth analyses and modeling of neuronal morphology using single neuron reconstruction data
• Develop and apply methods to integrate transcriptomic, morphological, and connectivity data
• Collaborate closely with experimentalists and computational scientists to advance shared research goals
• Communicate project progress frequently and present findings to internal stakeholders and the broader scientific community (e.g. at conferences)
• Help draft reports and manuscripts

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the 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

• PhD in Genomics, Neuroscience, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field; or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• High proficiency in one or more high-level programming languages (e.g. Python, and R)
• Strong grounding in mathematical and statistical methods
• Deep familiarity with agentic workflows for data analysis

Preferred Education and Experience

• 0-5 years of postdoctoral research experience
• Strong interest in neural circuits, cell types, and neuromodulation
• Experience with cellular, systems, computational neuroscience
• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment to meet ambitious project timelines
• Strong oral and written communication and organizational skills
• Strong publication record appropriate to career stage

Physical Demands

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

Work Environment

• Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or reach
• Possible exposure and handling of laboratory animals
• Laboratory atmosphere - possible exposure to chemical, biological or other hazardous substances

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This role is currently working onsite and is expected to work onsite for the majority of the working hours. We are a Washington State employer, and the primary work location for Allen Institute employees is 615 Dexter Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State.

Travel

• The successful candidate may be invited to attend occasional national and international conferences

Additional Comments

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

Annualized Salary Range

• $86,150 - $106,650

* Final salary depends on required education for the role, experience, and level of skills relevant to the role, along with 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.