Team info:

The Pathology Department is responsible for the macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of tissue samples from our study participants. The Anatomic Pathology team is responsible for necropsy, tissue grossing, and macroscopic evaluation of tissue; the Histology team for tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, staining, and microscopic slide generation; the Digital Pathology team for Micro-CT scanning, whole slide digital imaging, and analysis; and the Laboratory Operations team for study/data preparation and delivery, specimen tracking, and general maintenance and compliance.

Job Responsibilities:

The Imaging & Histology Specialist will work as a crossover member between the Digital Pathology and Histology teams to validate a variety of materials and methods while performing high throughput processes for tissue preparation, detection methods, image capture, and data curation. They will also provide timely, constructive feedback to teams across multiple disciplines.

Essential Functions:

• Help drive the day to day operations of Neuralink’s Pathology Laboratory(s)
• Operate and maintain high throughput imaging and histology equipment including, but not limited to, embedding stations, tissue processors, microtomes, slide stainers, slide/cassette printers, barcode scanners, digital slide scanners, and micro-CT scanners.
• Perform slide imaging, assay interpretation and documentation, and work closely with study pathologists
• Make detailed observations and assist with analyzing data, interpreting results, and communicating findings to team members in a clear and concise manner
• Prepare target and non-target tissue samples for histology processing and imaging including having a working knowledge of tissue fixation, embedding, processing, sectioning, and staining
• Produce high quality specimens at embedding, sectioning, and staining timepoints
• Perform novel immunohistochemical and special staining techniques
• Help generate, edit, and/or review reports, technical and equipment SOPs, logs, and forms
• Use a GLP compliant labeling system to record tissue specimens and reagents
• Be able to work while being audited by QA and regulatory agencies
• Other duties as assigned or as needed to support the Pathology Department and Research Services

Key qualifications:

• BA/BS in Biology, Medical Laboratory Science, Neuroscience, or a related field, with 1+ (Associate) / 3+ (Specialist) years of relevant laboratory experience
• Experience working with sensitive analytical equipment
• Histology and Immunohistochemistry experience and knowledge of basic/fundamental histology and troubleshooting principles
• High attention to detail
• Experience with daily QA/QC within a diagnostic/research laboratory environment
• Ability to carry out and document experiments consistently and according to established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs)
• Carry a working knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology

Preferred qualifications:

• Ability to multitask
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work as a team member in a fast moving/dynamic regulated environment
• Registry eligible as a Histology Technician (HT) or Histotechnologist (HTL) (ASCP), or equivalent. Qualification in Immunohistochemistry (QIHC) is considered a plus.
• Ability to conduct each step of the histological pipeline either independently or under the direction of the Histology team lead

Physical Requirements: Ability to travel to and from work in Fremont, CA and Austin, TX. Ability to work safely with potentially hazardous chemicals and biological specimens. Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Computer Skills: Basic computer skills including working knowledge of Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail), Slack, LIMS, and Imaging Software.

Work Environment: Laboratory, vivarium, and office.