Pathology Associate Scientist II - Translational Medicine

Job Description

The Pathology Laboratory within Local Delivery Translational Sciences (LDTS) develops, validates, and applies investigative pathology-based methods to support drug discovery, translational research, and nonclinical safety programs. The laboratory helps pathologists and scientists characterize compound-induced effects related to target-organ injury in animal and human tissues, characterize animal models of disease, develop target-engagement endpoints, evaluate local drug biodistribution, and address key questions that advance eyecare, aesthetics, and botulinum toxin development programs.

The Pathology Associate II is an experienced laboratory professional responsible for independently performing routine histology, specialized ocular histology, and related laboratory activities in support of nonclinical safety and investigative research studies. This role works closely with pathologists, scientists, and laboratory colleagues to coordinate study support, maintain laboratory equipment and supplies, manage pathology materials, and assist with specialized histology procedures such as immunohistochemistry (IHC) and special stains.

As a member of a small, collaborative team, the successful candidate will apply strong histology expertise, attention to detail, and sound laboratory judgment to support timely, high-quality study execution and efficient pathology laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform routine histology procedures, including tissue trimming, embedding, microtomy, slide preparation, staining, and coverslipping.
• Perform specialized ocular histology procedures and support preparation of ocular tissues for nonclinical safety and investigative studies.
• Perform or assist with immunohistochemistry (IHC), special stains, and other pathology laboratory procedures according to established protocols.
• Prepare, label, organize, track, archive, package, ship, and receive tissue blocks, slides, biological specimens, and other study-related materials.
• Operate histology equipment, including tissue processors and automated staining systems, and coordinate routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting activities.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, sample-tracking information, equipment documentation, and study-related documentation.
• Support laboratory operations through inventory management, purchasing and stocking supplies, coordinating equipment service, and maintaining organized work areas.
• Coordinate pathology materials and work schedules with pathologists, scientists, external contract research organizations (CROs), and colleagues at other sites.
• Follow laboratory safety policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality procedures, and applicable compliance requirements.
• Maintain awareness of current histology technologies and contribute to laboratory efficiency and continuous-improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate effectively with pathologists, scientists, and laboratory staff to support study execution and departmental objectives.
• Provide technical guidance or hands-on support to less experienced colleagues as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree with 2-4 years of relevant experience, a master's degree with 0-2 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Hands-on experience with routine histology procedures, including tissue trimming, embedding, microtomy, sectioning, staining, and slide preparation.
• Experience operating and maintaining histology equipment, such as tissue processors and automated staining systems.
• Experience packaging, shipping, receiving, and tracking histology specimens and materials.
• Ability to independently manage assigned laboratory activities with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, communication skills, and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments, follow established procedures, and maintain accurate documentation.

Preferred

• Experience in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, contract research, or related life-sciences industry.
• Hands-on experience with ocular histology.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and automated platforms such as the Leica Bond RX.
• Experience with special staining methods.
• Experience with digital pathology and whole-slide imaging systems.
• ASCP Histotechnician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) certification.

Additional Information

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: ​

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