Associate Scientist

Spectraforce Technologies, Inc.; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Spectraforce Technologies, Inc. is seeking an Associate Scientist / Histotechnician for an 8+ month contract in Irvine, CA. The role supports routine histology and IHC in Skincare R&D and Clinical Development, handling FFPE processing, sectioning, staining, imaging, and documentation.

This hands-on laboratory position requires independence, meticulous attention to quality, and strict adherence to SOPs and GLP/GxP practices in a fast-paced histology setting.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field.
• Minimum 1–3 years hands-on histology experience including FFPE processing, sectioning, staining.
• Strong attention to detail in a high-throughput lab.
• Ability to work independently following SOPs.
• Good documentation and record-keeping habits.
• Safe handling of chemicals and specimens.
• HT or HTL ASCP certification or eligibility.
• Experience with IHC staining (manual or automated).
• Familiarity with slide imaging workflows.
• Experience with automated IHC/special stains platforms.
• Experience in pharma/biotech CRO lab setting preferred.
• Familiarity with GLP/GxP documentation practices.

Responsibilities

• Process FFPE specimens including trimming, embedding, and block prep.
• Section FFPE blocks with a microtome to produce slides.
• Perform routine histology stains (H&E) and special stains.
• Perform manual/automated IHC staining with antigen retrieval and detection.
• Operate and maintain histology equipment (microtomes, processors, autostainers).
• Image slides and organize digital files for study teams.
• Maintain accurate records of samples, staining runs, and QC checks.
• Troubleshoot staining/ tissue quality issues per SOPs.
• Ensure proper labeling and chain-of-custody for specimens.
• Maintain lab supplies and calibration/maintenance logs.
• Adhere to safety protocols for chemicals and biohazards.
• Support lab organization, inventory, and cleanliness.
• Collaborate with scientists to meet study timelines.

Skills

FFPE processing

IHC staining

Microtomy

Lab safety

Documentation

ASCP HT/HTL

GlP/GxP documentation

Independent work

Education

Associate's degree in Histotechnology

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Tools

Leica Bond

Ventana Discovery

Dako Autostainer

Slide imaging systems

Job description

Position Title

Associate Scientist / Histotechnician

Work Location

Irvine, CA 92612

Assignment Duration

8+ months (possible extension- performance based)

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced histotechnician for an contract position supporting routine histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) operations within the histology laboratory for Skincare R&D and Clinical Development.

This is a hands-on, lab-based role responsible for the processing, sectioning, and staining of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, as well as performing special stains, IHC assays, and associated imaging/documentation.

Background & Context

The ideal candidate is comfortable working independently in a fast-paced environment, maintains rigorous attention to quality and consistency, and has solid foundational histology bench skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine processing of FFPE tissue specimens, including trimming, embedding, and block preparation
• Section FFPE tissue blocks using a microtome to produce high-quality, consistent slides for downstream analysis
• Perform routine histology staining (e.g., H&E) and special stains (e.g., Fontana-Masson, Resorcin Fuchsin, Herovici, etc.) per established SOPs
• Perform manual and/or automated immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, including antigen retrieval, antibody optimization support, and chromogenic/fluorescent detection
• Operate and maintain histology laboratory equipment (microtomes, tissue processors, embedding stations, autostainers, coverslippers)
• Perform slide imaging/scanning and organize digital image files for study team review
• Maintain accurate, detailed records of samples, staining runs, and quality control checks in line with lab documentation practices
• Troubleshoot staining and tissue quality issues, escalating as appropriate
• Ensure proper labeling, tracking, and chain-of-custody for tissue specimens and slides
• Maintain lab supplies, reagents, and equipment calibration/maintenance logs
• Adhere to all laboratory safety protocols, including handling of chemicals (formalin, xylene, etc.) and biohazardous materials
• Support general lab organization, inventory management, and cleanliness standards
• Collaborate with scientists and lab management within Skincare R&D and Clinical Development to meet study timelines and quality expectations

Qualification & Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Histotechnology)
• Minimum of 1-3 years of hands-on experience in a histology laboratory, including FFPE tissue processing, microtome sectioning, and routine/special staining
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in a high-throughput lab environment
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while following established SOPs
• Good documentation and record-keeping habits
• Ability to safely handle laboratory chemicals and biological specimens
• HT or HTL certification (ASCP) or eligibility
• Demonstrated experience performing IHC staining (manual and/or automated platforms)
• Familiarity with slide imaging/digital scanning workflows
• Experience with automated IHC/special stain platforms (e.g., Leica Bond, Ventana/Roche Discovery, Dako Autostainer)
• Experience with whole-slide imaging/scanning systems
• Prior experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or CRO research lab setting (as opposed to clinical diagnostics)
• Familiarity with GLP or GxP laboratory documentation practices
• Experience in skincare/dermatology-focused research or clinical development studies is a plus