Histology Lab Technician
Job Description
- Responsible for performing routine histology duties including, but not limited to:
- Assist in grossing mouse, rat, NHP, and human CNS samples
- Automated tissue processing; Maintains QC on gross station ensuring order and cleanliness
- Ability to operate a microtome and cryostat proficiently and efficiently
- Orient and embed (in paraffin) mouse, rat, NHP, and human CNS tissue according to established priority and protocols; Able to identify tissue structures to embed tissues in the appropriate orientation
- Cut and mount high quality CNS tissue sections from paraffin blocks according to established priorities and protocols; Able to differentiate tissue types and components, adjusting section thickness as specified by lab policies; Able to troubleshoot common microtomy issues by adjusting microtome, blocks or slides
- Able to embed CNS tissues in OCT and cut frozen tissue section using a cryostat
- Understand principles/norms associated with FFPE/Frozen tissue sections staining to produce artifact free slide review
- Can troubleshoot routine H&E staining and special stains
- Able to coverslip slides using both automated and manual methods
- File blocks and slides according to established laboratory methods
- Proficiency at computer entry/retrieval of lab results
- Accurately and diligently maintains laboratory records pertaining to tissue/slide records, workload and maintenance of procedures and instrumentation in the laboratory
- Prepares reagents, staining solutions, and buffers for laboratory procedures as needed; Ability to handle the biohazards and hazardous materials according to established standard safety regulations
- As needed, management of supplies and laboratory quality-control procedures
- May assist supervisor in troubleshooting and assuring proper follow up when technical, logistical and communication problems are encountered
- Meet the physical requirements adept to standing, sitting for longer durations and should be able to lift at least 30lbs
- Ability to identify colors
- Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
- Participates in laboratory meetings
Qualifications
- Associates degree required, but Bachelor's degree preferred in Biology, Neuroscience, or related field
- 1-2 years histology lab experience required
- Hands on experience in embedding, sectioning FFPE/frozen tissue
- Capable to handle high throughput histology workload
- Passing of a vision/color perception test is a requirement of employment