Associate Scientist I

Planet Pharma; Irvine (CA); In loco; USD 39.000 - 52.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

Planet Pharma seeks a detail-oriented histotechnician for an 8-month contract in Irvine, CA. The role covers routine histology and IHC on FFPE tissues, including processing, embedding, and staining, with emphasis on quality and documentation.

The candidate will operate and maintain histology equipment, perform image/scanning tasks, and ensure proper labeling and chain-of-custody. Prior experience with FFPE, stains, and safety practices is essential.

Competenze

• Minimum 1–3 years hands-on histology experience in FFPE processing, sectioning, staining.
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in a high-throughput lab environment.
• Good documentation and record-keeping habits; ability to follow SOPs and safety rules.

Mansioni

• Perform routine FFPE processing, embedding, and block preparation.
• Section FFPE blocks with a microtome to produce high-quality slides.
• Perform H&E and special stains per SOPs; run IHC staining and capture results.

Conoscenze

Attention to detail

Independent work

Documentation

Formazione

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field

Strumenti

Microtome

Autostainers

Tissue processors

Coverslippers

Slide imaging/scanning

Descrizione del lavoro

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced histotechnician for an 8-month 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. 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

Required Qualifications

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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
• On-site, full-time lab-based role (standard business hours, may vary by lab needs)
• Requires standing/sitting at a lab bench for extended periods and handling laboratory chemicals and biological tissue specimens
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required per lab safety protocols