Research Technologist 2 (Histotechnologist)

Department: MED-Cancer Center
Salary/Grade: NEX/11

Job Summary:

The candidate will be responsible for all stages of histopathology-related tissue processing of non-clinical specimens including: tissue fixation, processing, embedding, microtomy (paraffin, plastic or cryosectioning), standard and special histological staining, as well as quality control. The work involves performing multiple laboratory related duties: tracking job flow, processing paperwork, instrument maintenance and documentation, and communication with client staff and faculty as needed. Experience with immunostaining methods (immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, enzyme histochemistry) and nucleic acid in situ hybridization are highly desirable but not required. The work requires ensuring lab compliance with all associated rules and regulations for standard operating procedures and safety regulations. The position will be on-site at the Mouse Histology & Phenotyping Laboratory (MHPL) at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center in the Chicago campus of Northwestern University.

Specific Responsibilities:

* Biological specimen tissue processing and grossing for paraffin embedding or frozen block preparations
* Microtomy (paraffin, cryostat and vibratome)
* H&E and specialized histology stains
* Molecular phenotyping: immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, ISH/RNAscope
* Provide consultations for MHPL clients regarding tissue harvest, fixation protocols, tissue grossing requirements, histology stains and molecular phenotyping services
* Quality control of tissue sections, histology stains, IHC, IF and RNAscope slides

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Tracking and documentation of MHPL orders
• Maintenance of lab instruments
• Observance of lab compliance to research safety guidelines

Finance Responsibilities:

• Tracking of lab purchases

Supervision & Training Responsibilities
* Provide training for MHPL instruments for rent: cryostat and vibratome
* Training and supervision of lab interns

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

1. Completed a Bachelor's degree in Histotechnology or Life Sciences
2. Completed an Associate degree in Histotechnology with 2 years work experience in a histopathology lab post-degree
3. Legally authorized to work in the U.S. (U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident and does not require a work visa)

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

1. Must have strong histology training and capability to efficiently process, embed, and section tissues using a microtome or cryostat.
2. Ability to generate high quality paraffin sections on slides at a minimum rate of 20-25 FFPE blocks per hour (this skill must be demonstrated during interview).
3. Good understanding of cell biology, developmental biology and vertebrate anatomy and physiology
4. Strong familiarity with medical terminologies
5. Basic computer skills (word processing, Excel/Google spreadsheets, Powerpoint)
6. Team oriented

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• ASCP HTL Certification

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

1. Training or work experience in a histopathology lab
2. Familiarity or experience with immunostaining methods (chromogenic immunohistochemistry and multiplex immunofluorescence)

Target hiring range for this position will be between $17.96-$24.86 per hour. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

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