Histology Technician II - CPDR

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HJF is seeking a Histology Technician II responsible for processing, maintaining, and documenting high-quality histologic preparations that support clinical, translational, and basic science research focused on prostate cancer and genitourinary diseases. The incumbent performs advanced histology techniques, manages laboratory operations, maintains specimen records, supports research protocols, and collaborates with scientists, clinicians, and laboratory personnel to advance cancer research objectives.

This position will be in support of the Center for Prostate Disease Research (CPDR) within the Murtha Cancer Center Research Program (MCCRP) located at the Rockledge Offices in Bethesda, Maryland. Incumbent may be required to occasionally perform up to two days per week of work from the clinic site located at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) in Bethesda, MD. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to the MCCRP and CPDR.

This position requires U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a T3/Secret Security Clearance.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

CPDR is a comprehensive research program to study prostate cancer and prostate disease, CPDR was established in 1992 (Public Law 102-172). The program's mission is fulfilled primarily through its three principal programs: (1) the Clinical Translational Research Center; (2) the Basic Science Research Program, and (3) the Multicenter National Prostate Cancer Database to encompass its clinical research work with participating military medical centers.

• Perform routine and advanced histological procedures, including tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, mounting, and slide preparation.
• Execute specialized molecular and pathology techniques such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), RNA in situ hybridization (RISH), chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH), spectral karyotyping (SKY), and laser capture microdissection.
• Process prostate needle biopsies, OCT embedded frozen tissue, whole-mount prostate specimens, paraffin-embedded tissue blocks, and special send-out specimens for molecular and genetic testing.
• Select, track, document, and maintain specimens and laboratory records, ensuring data integrity and compliance with research protocols.
• Develop and maintain electronic databases and specimen management systems supporting research activities.
• Troubleshoot and optimize staining and laboratory procedures to ensure successful experimental outcomes.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, solutions, and supplies, and maintain laboratory equipment and quality control processes.
• Support research studies through specimen preparation, data collection, data entry, archival retrieval, sample shipping, and preparation of materials for publications and grant applications.
• Train and mentor laboratory personnel in histology techniques and laboratory procedures.
• Assist with laboratory management, regulatory compliance, inventory control, and adherence to laboratory safety and standard operating procedures.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists, physicians, researchers, technicians, and external collaborators.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in a scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 3-5 years' experience required in histologic technique.

Required Licenses, Certification or Registration

• Histotechnologist Certification (HTL) through the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (HTL, ASCP) is preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of histologic technique and related scientific discipline.
• Knowledge of and skill in handling biological hazards and their safe use and disposal.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word preferred.
• Proper orientation and embedding of breast tissues, skill and proficiency in performing all aspects of microtomy and slide preparation for routine H&E and special histology stains.
• This position may require U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a T3 Secret Clearance.

Physical Capabilities

• Ability to work at a workbench or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory and clinical setting.
• This position is 100% on site and has no teleworking capability.

Compensation

• The salary range for this position is $61,000-$80,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.