Software Engineer II

The mission 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. Our ultimate goal is to uncover 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.

We are searching for a talented and enthusiastic developer to build Web-based and Python tools for processing and visualizing large scale 5D biological imaging data. The ideal candidate enjoys learning new tools and techniques while remaining diligent and detail oriented. This engineer will receive technical guidance and enjoy professional growth opportunities in a supportive environment. As a member of our close, collaborative team, you will have the freedom to contribute to as much of our code and design processes as you would like, based on your interests and skills.

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.

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We build open-source community tools that make cell biology more accessible to more people in order to foster scientific collaboration and discovery. Our team is composed of highly dedicated and creative people with diverse backgrounds and skill sets who work together on cutting edge development projects. We seek to grow our talented team and to build an environment that nurtures software engineers at all stages of their career. Join our inclusive team to pursue your passion of using software engineering to increase scientific and societal impact.

To learn more about our work at the Allen Institute for Cell Science, please visit:
https://www.allencell.org
https://www.allencell.org/tools-and-resources-overview.html

Essential Functions

• Front end: create and maintain core functionality of image analysis, visualization, and data management tools
• Implement front end design solutions to specification
• Develop Python code to directly assist scientists to simplify and scale their work
• Optimize loading, saving, and converting large image arrays with metadata
• Collect requirements and find opportunities for new tools
• Actively participate in collaboration with design, giving thoughtful input on technical approach and/or alternatives
• Perform software development duties using best practices - follow industry standards, develop unit tests, participate in code reviews, etc.
• Follow the Allen Institute’s software management and deployment standards including source code management, issue tracking, staging and deployment standards, and documentation

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• Minimum 1 year of related experience
• Experience with Typescript/CSS/React and deploying web applications
• Experience with Python for scientific computing; for example: numpy, pandas, scipy, xarray, dask
• Experience or interest in performance optimization and scalability
• Familiarity with both relational and document databases
• Solid foundation in matrices and linear algebra

Preferred Education and Experience

• Experience working on an agile development team
• Enthusiasm for working closely with cross-functional colleagues and stakeholders
• Experience building and maintaining server-side applications, including data access APIs
• Interest in, or experience with, 3D graphics such as OpenGL, Vulkan, DirectX, three.js
• Experience with AI, running ML models and evaluating results
• Experience with build processes and continuous integration such as GitHub Actions
• Familiarity with C++
• Strong communication skills

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 Washington State employer, and the primary work location for all Allen Institute employees is 615 Westlake Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State.

Annualized Salary Range

$119,650 - $149,550*

• 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.