Histology Research Technician (Entry Level)

The McConnell Group; South Bend (IN); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Part time

Job summary

The McConnell Group in South Bend, IN, is seeking an Entry-Level Histology Research Technician to join our histology core on a part-time basis (up to 29 hours/week, flexible schedule).

The role supports tissue processing, staining, and slide preparation, working in a collaborative university lab with samples mainly from mice and rats. Background checks and security clearances are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in a life sciences field.
• Hands-on histology experience including embedding, sectioning, and staining.
• Detail-oriented with ability to keep accurate records.
• Ability to follow established protocols in a lab setting.
• Strong communication and organizational skills to work with a diverse team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and process tissue samples in the histology core, including fixation, embedding, paraffin and frozen sectioning, and staining.
• Operate and maintain histology equipment such as tissue processors, embedding stations, microtomes, cryostats, and vibratomes.
• Prepare reagents, equipment, and supplies for histology procedures.
• Examine slides under a microscope to confirm quality before researchers receive them.
• Keep accurate records of samples, procedures, and observations.
• Troubleshoot issues and help improve histology protocols with senior staff.
• Follow lab safety rules and maintain an organized workspace.
• Contribute to development and optimization of histological techniques.
• Support documentation of results for publications and grant reports.

Skills

Histology techniques

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Follow lab protocols

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences/ Biotechnology

Tools

Pipetting

Light microscopes

Job description

Description

Position: Histology Research Technician (Entry Level)

Type: Part time (up to 29 hours per week, flexible schedule)

Work Setting: Research histology core facility

Hourly Compensation Range: Competitive hourly rate, commensurate with experience and skills.

Position Summary:

The McConnell Group is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Histology Research Technician to join a research histology core facility. The successful candidate will support histology workflows, assist researchers with tissue-based experiments, and contribute to research in the life sciences.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong histology skills to gain hands‑on experience in a collaborative research support environment. Samples handled in this role are primarily animal tissue, mostly from mice and rats.

Required Screenings:

Candidate MUST pass a government background check as well as maintain appropriate security clearances.

Work Location:

University laboratory, Notre Dame campus, South Bend, IN

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and process tissue samples in the histology core, including fixation, embedding, paraffin and frozen sectioning, and routine and special staining.
• Operate and maintain histology equipment, including automated tissue processors, embedding stations, rotary microtomes, cryostats, and vibratomes.
• Prepare and maintain the reagents, equipment, and supplies needed for histology procedures.
• Examine finished slides under a microscope to confirm section and stain quality before release to researchers.
• Keep accurate, current records of samples, procedures, and observations.
• Work with senior research staff to troubleshoot technical issues and improve histology protocols.
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work environment.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of histological techniques.
• Support research team members with documentation of results for publications and grant reports.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Hands on experience with histology techniques such as tissue embedding, sectioning, and staining.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records.
• Ability to follow protocols and work efficiently in a laboratory setting.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, including the ability to communicate with a diverse audience.
• A willingness to learn and contribute to the success of the research team.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

• Histotechnologist (HTL) certification preferred.
• Experience with frozen sectioning (cryostat) or vibratome sectioning.
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques and equipment, such as pipetting and light microscopes.
• Experience working in a research or laboratory setting.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and work with laboratory equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift light to moderate weight, up to 25 lbs., as needed for laboratory tasks.

Benefits: The McConnell Group offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), and a range of other voluntary benefits. Paid Time Off (PTO) is offered to regular full‑time employees.

The McConnell Group Recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes without regard to race, religion, creed, color, citizenship, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including termination, layoff, recall, transfer, and leaves of absence.

As required by law, The McConnell Group participates in E-Verify, a service of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA), to verify the identity and employment eligibility of persons hired to work in the United States. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities as an applicant, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify

Disclaimer: Nothing in this job description/posting shall constitute an offer or promise of employment.