Research Histotechnologist I/II
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit, unified adult cancer care and research center that is clinically integrated with UW Medicine, a world leader in clinical care, research and learning. The first National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in the Pacific Northwest, Fred Hutch’s global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy, and COVID-19 vaccines has confirmed our reputation as one of the world’s leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy, and related services, and network affiliations with hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world’s deadliest diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality.
At Fred Hutch, we believe that the innovation, collaboration, and rigor that result from diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission of eliminating cancer and related diseases. We seek employees who bring different and innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems. Fred Hutch is in pursuit of becoming an antiracist organization. We are committed to ensuring that all candidates hired share our commitment to diversity, antiracism, and inclusion.
The Experimental Histopathology Research Histotechnologist I/II is responsible for providing routine and customized slide-based assays to support Fred Hutchinson research efforts. This individual will design and implement innovative immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or in situ hybridization (ISH) protocols in collaboration with the Director and investigator supporting the project in a customer service based, team-oriented work environment. This role is also responsible for supporting routine histology services with tissue preservation and processing, slide preparation, staining and imaging.
Responsibilities
The Experimental Histopathology (EH) department provides an essential service of high quality and highly technical histology services support for Fred Hutch and external investigators. EH personnel perform all aspects of histology including tissue preservation, processing and basic to highly complex staining, digital imaging and image analysis for support of high impact research and publication. The Research Histotechnologist I is responsible for supporting general histology functions with routine tissue processing, paraffin and frozen sectioning, special stains and routine immunohistochemistry (IHC). The Research Histotechnologist II will support general histology functions, up to 4-color multiplex IHC and single chromagenic in situ hybridization (ISH) protocol development and implementation. Individuals are responsible for making decisions to develop new protocols and methods based on independent research, previously documented protocols and experiments, personal knowledge and experience with guidance from the Manager, Director or delegate
Essential Tasks, Research Histotechnologist I:
- Support general histology functions with accessioning, tissue freezing, cyrosectioning, fixation, trimming, processing, paraffin embedding, sectioning, routine and specialized histochemical staining.
- Perform chromagenic immunohistochemistry (DAB IHC) and chromagenic in situ hybridization (ISH) staining using established protocols.
- Communicate with investigators on new and existing projects for routine histology, DAB IHC/ISH and advanced histology procedures. Use specialized histology experience and knowledge to advise on project design and troubleshoot. Use clear and concise communication skills to give project status updates and provide results at project completion.
- Perform brightfield and fluorescent imaging of microscope slides using Aperio digital slide scanning and imaging equipment or equivalent.
- Support general laboratory maintenance tasks as needed including reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, etc.
Essential Tasks, Research Histotechnologist II
- Perform all tasks listed for Research Histotechnologist I.
- Optimize new antibodies or probes for DAB IHC, DAB ISH staining or low-plex (4-color or less) multi-plex IHC staining. Research published sources, manufacturer provided data, historical EH protocols for efficient and effective testing to minimize cost and time needed for assay development. Analyze results with guidance of more experienced staff, if necessary, during optimization to troubleshoot and modify methods for reliable and reproducible results. Document protocols for accurate and efficient continuity of services.
Qualifications
Research Histotechnologist I
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A bachelor’s degree in a biological science and a minimum of two years of experience as a histology technician
- Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to multi-task with precise attention to detail is especially critical
- To be successful in this position, the applicant must be capable of taking initiative and working independently
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Certification by a nationally recognized agency, such as the American Society of Clinical Pathology, is desired
Research Histotechnologist II
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree
- 3 years relevant Histology/Pathology Experience plus at least 1 year of IHC experience
- Intermediate knowledge of IHC and/or ISH procedures
- Strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work positively in a customer oriented environment
- Ability to work independently, establish priorities and work concurrently on multiple projects
- Familiarity in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook
- Proficiency in basic histology skills: tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, cryosectioning and routine histochemical staining
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Familiarity with Leica Bond automated staining platforms
- Familiarity with Aperio or similar digital imaging systems
- Experience with optimizing new antibodies in IHC and brightfield digital imaging
Fred Hutch has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccine requirement, with exceptions only for approved medical or religious accommodations.
As a condition of employment, newly hired employees must provide proof of vaccination or initiate the accommodations process before their first day of employment.
A statement describing your commitment and contributions toward greater diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism in your career or that will be made through your work at Fred Hutch is requested of all finalists.
Our Commitment to Diversity
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which diverse perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Affirmative Action employer. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds to apply and desire priority referrals of protected veterans. If due to a disability you need assistance/and or a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to our Employee Services Center at hrops@fredhutch.org or by calling 206-667-4700.