Histology Research Technician I

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY

The Histology Research Technician participates research studies and internal product evaluations (new or existing products) under the guidance of the Senior Director of Tissue Based Research.  As such, the successful candidate is expected to learn the function and operation of all Sakura instrument systems, tissue fixation, processing, embedding, sectioning and staining and be able to conduct studies with limited supervision. The candidate must be able to understand and follow complex protocols, collect and collate data, and write up results in a clear and concise manner.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Collaborates with other TBR members (and other departments) in new product development activities. 
• Reads and understands complex study protocols and executes studies, with oversight of their manager or senior histology staff.
• Documents results in a clear and concise manner.
• Individually or as part of a team, conducts relevant tests and evaluations.
• With help from other histology staff, maintains the histology wing of the TBR laboratory to support product development and other activities by self and others.
• Assists in investigating customer complaints.
• Performs histology procedures such as:
  • Grossing, fixing, processing and embedding of tissue specimens
  • Microtomy (FFPE and cryostat)
  • Hematoxylin & Eosin and other cytochemical stains
  • Immunohistochemical stains
• Engages in design and testing of software, reagents, and instrumentation. 
• Works in compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Provides clearly written documentation of experimental results.
• Performs other duties and projects as assigned.

Other Activities

• Maintains good relations with coworkers, customers, and vendors.
• Keeps abreast of current technical programs by participation in technical groups.

Quality/Business Systems Activities

• Adheres to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Ensures compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Other Skills

• Interacts with supervisor and team members in a professional and proactive manner.

ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS

 Education

• Associate of Science or Bachelor of Science degree in Histotechnology or equivalent combination of education and experience.

 Experience & Minimum Qualifications

• One to three years of experience as a histology technician.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge in the biological sciences and the scientific method.
• Ability to skillfully and accurately perform the methods and procedures of histologic techniques, including cytochemical and immunohistochemical staining.
• Eagerness to learn and acquire new skills.
• Maintains laboratory equipment.
• Basic computer and clerical skills.
• Knowledge of disposal procedures of hazardous waste and other waste solutions.
• Maintains Q.A. and equipment records.
• Ability to get along well with diverse personalities.  Must be tactful and flexible.
• Ability to use standard office, testing and inspection equipment.

Physical Requirements & Working Environment

• This position requires the employee to frequently stand.
• Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work safely and proficiently in a shop environment with a variety of instruments and tools.
• Ability to read and analyze hard written copy and information on a computer screen.  In addition, requires vision abilities such as close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to listen, understand, interpret and solve problems.