Histotechnologist

About the role

The role owns and executes histology workflows for mouse and rat brain to support research into ultrasonic neuromodulation. Histotechnologists build and run the full histological pipeline from processing to imaging and documentation.

Most organizations organize this kind of work into small teams with a clear owner for each project. People are expected to set priorities, share progress, and ask for help early. Written communication matters because decisions are often recorded and revisited. Successful professionals in any field share a few habits: they take notes, keep commitments, and communicate in writing. Teams value people who make their work easy to review and build on.

Key facts

What you'll do

This processing enables consistent histological workflows that support reliable experimental outcomes.

Standard histological stains and immunohistochemistry run on manual and automated staining platforms to uphold data quality and experimental rigor. These platforms ensure staining consistency across batches and support high-quality results.

Optimization improves imaging quality and compatibility with downstream analytical methods.

This preparation supports comprehensive 3D analysis of neural tissue architecture.

Maintenance and calibration reduce downtime and variability in histological output.

Collaboration ensures that histological methods align with evolving research needs.

Requirements

The role requires at least 3 years of industry experience processing rodent brain tissue using histotechnology to ensure technical proficiency. Experience demonstrates familiarity with complex neural tissue challenges.

Core histological techniques, including microtomy for paraffin, cryo, and vibratome sections, tissue embedding, H&E staining, and immunohistochemistry, must be proficient to generate interpretable data. Mastery of these techniques supports accurate and reproducible results.

At least one tissue clearing method and associated imaging modalities, such as light sheet microscopy, are necessary to handle cleared specimen workflows. Proficiency supports effective imaging and data acquisition.

Automated staining and sectioning platforms require familiarity for efficient workflow integration and to technology in routine processes. Integration enables higher throughput and standardized outputs.

HT(ASCP) certification or equivalent training is required, and a Bachelor's degree in biology, neuroscience, or a related field is preferred to ensure foundational knowledge for the role. Certification and education validate technical competence.

Practical notes

The position is based in San Francisco and operates on a full-time schedule. High integrity and strong professional judgment guide decision-making and accuracy in all histological work. Typical interview steps

Interviews in this field typically test judgment, communication, and fit as much as technical skill. Be ready to describe a challenge you faced, what you did, and what you learned. Most companies value honest answers over polished ones. Whatever the role, preparation is visible. Reviewing the company's product, the job description, and your own past work before the conversation is the strongest step.

Good to know

This role applies histology methods to neural tissue, using specialized equipment for research purposes. The work involves manual and automated laboratory protocols in a technology-driven environment. Clearance and compliance standards are important for handling biological samples. Attention to documentation and reproducibility supports long‑term data utility.

Questions to ask

Useful questions for the interview: what a typical week looks like, how work is assigned, what tools the team uses, and how feedback works. Asking how the role has changed recently and what the team wishes it had known when joining is also reasonable. Questions about the manager's priorities are especially valued.

Career growth

Career growth comes from taking on harder problems and making your work visible. Look for opportunities to own outcomes, mentor others, and learn the business beyond your team. Growth in any career comes from scope, results, and reputation. Take on work that is slightly uncomfortable, and make sure others can see the outcomes.