Benaroya Research Institute – Hiring for Research Technician I @Seattle, WA

About Company

The Benaroya Research Institute (BRI) is a world-renowned nonprofit research organization based in Seattle, affiliated with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. BRI is dedicated to a singular, bold mission: discovering the causes of immune system diseases and finding ways to predict, prevent, reverse, and cure them. From autoimmune disorders like Type 1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis to cancer and allergies, BRI uses cutting-edge biorepositories and innovative tools to rebalance the immune system back to health.

Job Details

Job Description

The Bettelli Lab at BRI is looking for a highly motivated Research Technician I to assist in investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms of autoimmunity. This role is perfect for a scientist who wants to dive deep into how the body’s defense systems go rogue. You will perform bench-scale experiments on both murine (mouse) and human immune cells, utilizing a sophisticated suite of molecular biology techniques to identify how to limit the development of autoimmune responses.

Requirements

• Education: A BA/BS in a scientific field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or Molecular Biology).
• Laboratory Experience: Prior experience working in a research laboratory environment is mandatory.
• Technical Prerequisite: Hands-on experience working with mouse models is required, along with foundational skills in cellular and molecular biology techniques.
• Core Competencies: Extreme attention to detail, critical thinking, and a strong desire to learn and grow within a high-stakes research environment.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Experimental Execution: Perform laboratory experiments on adaptive and innate immune cells.
• Technical Applications: Utilize flow cytometry, cell culture, gene expression analysis, cytokine quantification (ELISA/Luminex), and immunohistochemistry.
• Data Management: Maintain meticulous laboratory records, analyze experimental data, and report findings to the Principal Investigator (PI) and lab members.
• Collaboration: Support and collaborate with other lab members to ensure project milestones are met.
• Animal Work: Maintain and handle murine models as part of autoimmunity studies.

How to Apply?

Role Summary

As a Research Technician I in the Bettelli Lab, you are essentially a “Biological Detective.” You are looking for the “on/off” switches in the immune system. While a lot of your time will be at the bench or in the vivarium (working with mice), your work directly contributes to “rebalancing” human health. You’ll be at the forefront of Translational Research, where discoveries made in the lab move toward actual patient care.

Company Culture & Insights

BRI operates at the intersection of academic curiosity and clinical urgency. Because they are affiliated with a healthcare system, the research feels immediate and impactful. The institute values “Powering Possibility,” meaning they encourage technicians to not just run protocols but to understand the “why” behind the science.

Workforce Diversity & Representation (BRI/Seattle Research Sector Estimates): In alignment with federal reporting and the Pacific Northwest biotech landscape, BRI maintains a diverse scientific workforce. Concrete representation often follows these approximate benchmarks for Seattle-based research institutes:

Note: BRI is an EEO employer and explicitly welcomes applicants across all protected characteristics.

Total Workforce Gender: ~62% Female | 38% Male.

Racial & Ethnic Diversity:

White: ~52%

Asian: ~28%

Hispanic / Latinx: ~9%

Black / African American: ~6%

Two or More Races / Other: ~5%

Why We Recommend This Job

• High-Tier Mentorship: The Bettelli Lab is a specialist in autoimmunity. Learning under this team provides a massive boost if you plan to pursue a PhD or MD later.
• Modern Technique Suite: Mastery of Flow Cytometry and Gene Expression Analysis is highly marketable in the Seattle “Biotech Hub” (home to giants like Juno Therapeutics and Seagen).
• Seattle Location: Seattle is a top-3 global hub for immunology, offering immense networking and future career opportunities.

Career Growth Potential

Research Technician II/III: Gaining independence, managing specific projects, and potentially leading lab logistics.

Lab Manager: Overseeing the operations, budgets, and safety protocols for the entire Bettelli Lab.

Graduate Studies (PhD/MD): Most technicians use this role as a 2–3 year springboard into top-tier medical or graduate programs.

Skills You’ll Gain

Salary & Benefits Info

• Hourly Rate: $24.05 – $34.15 per hour ($50,024 – $71,032 annually).
• Time Off: Generous 13 holidays, 3 weeks of vacation, and 2 weeks of sick leave.
• Commuter Benefits: Subsidized ORCA pass (essential for Seattle transit).
• Retirement: 403(b) plan with matching funds after one year.

Interview Preparation

Frequently Asked Interview Questions

1. Flow Cytometry: “Can you explain how a flow cytometer distinguishes between different cell populations based on surface markers?”
2. Mouse Models: “What experience do you have with murine handling? How do you ensure accuracy and ethical compliance during a longitudinal study?”
3. Immunology: “What is the difference between an adaptive and an innate immune response in the context of an autoimmune attack?”
4. Assay Troubleshooting: “If your ELISA results show a high background signal, what variables in the protocol would you investigate first?”

Behavioral & Culture Questions

1. Attention to Detail: “In a complex, multi-day experiment, how do you track your variables to ensure reproducibility?”
2. Motivation: “Research can involve repetitive tasks and failed experiments. What keeps you motivated when a project hits a technical roadblock?”
3. Teamwork: “Describe a time you had to support a lab mate’s project while maintaining your own workload. How did you prioritize?”