Great mission, no career growth, low pay, no stability - Scientist I Allen Institute Employee Review

4.0
16 Jun 2021
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

-Working with the best neuroscientists in the world -Very well known place - everyone wants to collaborate with you and great name to have on a CV -Good intermediate level management - PMs are amazing -Well organized seminars, job interviews and interactions with software engineers

Cons

-Very low pay according to the industry standards and the salary barely grows to cover inflation -No career opportunities - your promotion really depends on who you talked to rather than achievements. No system for evaluation of scientists work. -Software engineers are paid more and do less than scientists. Scientists are expected to do research, support infrastructure, present findings and bring money in grants. Too little pay and not enough freedom as in Academia. -Inconsistent politics: they could hire researchers to do the project, but will end it next year. Every year there are going to be reorganizations. No consistency in terms of the overall strategy. This year they wanted to do translational research, another year they do not want, then want to do it again. -Harmful politics: the research directions are determined by 1-2 people in the organization rather than everyones feedback. There is freedom on the seminars, but no real flexibility and understanding when it comes to decisions.

Explore other reviews about Allen Institute

5.0
4 Dec 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Culture is great Science is awesom

Cons

Non-profit salary and benefits (no bonus)

4.0
12 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I loved my time working for the Institute, great working conditions and benefits. Work for a company doing incredible things.

Cons

I dont have cons from my time there

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