Autopsy & Surgical Pathology Assistant

Brown University Health; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 91,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University Health seeks a Pathologist Assistant to prepare surgical and autopsy specimens for microscopic analysis under general supervision, including gross description and dissection. Assists in postmortem examinations at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence.

The role emphasizes collaboration with pathologists, residents, and students, maintaining safety, and ensuring accurate specimen handling and documentation within SOPs and LIS systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology with accredited pathologist assistant program.
• Pathologist Assistant certification preferred; doctoral training may substitute.
• Strong analytical ability to interpret findings and relay to pathologist.
• Knowledge of anatomic pathology computer systems.
• Ability to perform gross dissection using surgical instruments.
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Process surgical pathology specimens: fix, cut, photograph, and section; include frozen sections per SOPs.
• Perform postmortem examinations under pathologist supervision; assist students in autopsies.
• Orient and teach residents and medical students.
• Maintain inventory and equipment, including preventive maintenance.
• Notify leadership when workload backing up; maintain safe, clean work environment.
• Ensure equipment is in good working order and monitor station cleanliness.
• Monitor hours/activities of grossing staff.
• Perform duties such as accessioning, billing, and coding.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Analytical ability

Interpersonal skills

Gross dissection

LIS software knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology

Accredited Pathologist Assistant program

PA certification preferred

Tools

Laboratory Information System

Job description

Brown University Health seeks a Pathologist Assistant to prepare surgical and autopsy specimens for microscopic analysis under general supervision, including gross description and dissection. Assists in postmortem examinations at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence.

The role emphasizes collaboration with pathologists, residents, and students, maintaining safety, and ensuring accurate specimen handling and documentation within SOPs and LIS systems.