Histology Technician
The Histology Technician supports a research core facility by performing histology and in vivo imaging workflows, including tissue processing, sectioning, staining, and operating small-animal imaging systems. This role involves handling live laboratory animals, maintaining laboratory equipment, and collaborating with senior staff to optimize experimental protocols, contributing to life sciences research advancements in a team-oriented environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
This is an entry-level Histology Research Technician & Biological Imaging role supporting a research core facility. The Confidential Client is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented technician to assist with histology workflows and small-animal in vivo imaging. This is a full-time, direct-hire role based in North Bethesda, MD. Compensation listed in the source: $50,000 per year.
Key Responsibilities
- Process, embed, and section tissue using automated tissue processors, embedding stations, rotary microtomes, cryostats, and vibratomes.
- Perform paraffin and frozen sectioning and routine and special staining.
- Operate and maintain in vivo imaging systems (small-animal microCT, MRI, PET/SPECT/CT, and optical imaging platforms).
- Prepare and maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, and supplies for histology and imaging procedures.
- Handle, anesthetize, position, and monitor live mice and rats during imaging sessions in accordance with approved animal use protocols (training provided as required).
- Maintain accurate records of experimental data, observations, and procedures.
- Collaborate with senior research staff to troubleshoot technical issues and refine protocols.
- Assist with developing and optimizing imaging and histology techniques.
- Process and organize imaging data and support basic image analysis and documentation for reports and publications.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized workspace.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field — or equivalent practical experience.
- Hands-on experience with histology techniques: tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.
- Strong attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and work efficiently in a lab setting.
- Good communication and organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse research team.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new imaging/histology methods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Histotechnologist (HTL) certification.
- Experience handling laboratory mice or rats and familiarity with IACUC protocols.
- Prior exposure to in vivo imaging systems or image analysis software (training available).
- Previous research or core-facility laboratory experience.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, and work with laboratory equipment for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
- Work involves handling animal tissue and live laboratory animals — adherence to biosafety and animal-care protocols is required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base pay as listed in the source: $50,000 per year.
- Benefits and eligibility depend on the Confidential Client’s policies and may include standard voluntary and/or employer-provided plans (medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid holidays, and paid sick leave) — actual offerings and eligibility vary by employer and location.
Location & Employment Type
- Location: North Bethesda, MD (on-site work supporting core facility operations).
- Employment type: Full-time, direct hire.
What We Value
- Curiosity and a willingness to learn new techniques in histology and imaging.
- Strong attention to detail and integrity in data and recordkeeping.
- Team-oriented mindset and effective communication with research staff and collaborators.
- Commitment to lab safety and ethical treatment of laboratory animals.
Notes on Hiring Process
Careertakes is assisting as a third-party recruiter for this opportunity. The Confidential Client may use standard screening, interview, and background steps consistent with federal, state, and local laws. If reasonable accommodations are needed during the hiring process, please let Careertakes know so we can coordinate with the Confidential Client.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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