Histology Specialist II

Massachusetts General Hospital
United States, Massachusetts, Boston
275 Charles Street (Show on map)
Jan 01, 2025
The Histology Specialist II reports to the Laboratory Supervisor and, under the supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor or Senior Histology Specialist, performs routine laboratory functions to produce histologic preparations for examination by residents and staff pathologists. Key Responsibilities Histology Techniques Perform routine histology functions, including fixation, decalcification, processing, embedding, microtomy, routine and special stains, immunohistochemistry staining, and frozen sections. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with minimal supervision. Instrumentation Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as pH meters, balances, microtomes, tissue processors, cryostats, and coverslippers. Prepare percent, molar, and normal solutions and stains. Tissue Preparation Fix tissues in appropriate fixatives, dehydrate with graded alcohols, clear with xylene, and impregnate with paraffin wax using automated processors. Embed specimens ensuring proper orientation and produce 4-micron sections using a microtome. Float sections on a water bath, collect them on glass slides, and dry them in a slide dryer. Slide Preparation and Quality Control Perform routine and special staining techniques, including H&E staining and immunohistochemical stains, both manually and using automated methods. Ensure slides are clerically correct, examine them for quality under a microscope, and distribute to residents and pathologists. Frozen Section Preparation Prepare specimens for rapid frozen section diagnosis using liquid nitrogen and a cryostat microtome. Stain frozen sections using various methods. Quality and Records Maintenance Prepare solutions and reagents, maintain quality control records, and accurately document blocks and slides produced. File tissue blocks, ensuring proper labeling and organization. Additional Duties Assist in preparing and maintaining laboratory supplies. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Skills and Abilities Experience in IHC/SPU. Ability to review slides for quality control. Competence in embedding and cutting all human and animal tissues. Proficiency in producing two-micrometer sections and performing manual H&E stains. Skilled in performing special and immunohistochemistry stains using both manual and automated methods. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and ability to follow established technical, safety, and clerical procedures. Thorough understanding of histology theories and techniques, including fixation, decalcification, and staining. Experience 3-4 years of clinical experience, or 5-6 years of histology experience in a research setting. High-volume clinical lab experience preferred. Ability to identify different cell types and structures is a plus. Education and Certification Minimum of a high school diploma or graduate of an NCCALS-approved school of histotechnology. *Current MGB employees or former employees (separated from the MGB organization for less than 1 year) are not eligible for the sign-on bonus. Additional Job Description The General Hospital Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.