Senior Research Associate - Histology & Microscopy

Role Summary:

We are seeking a Senior Research Associate, Histology & Microscopy to independently execute and advance histology and microscopy activities that support preclinical research programs. This individual will apply strong technical expertise to plan and perform tissue-based studies, optimize and troubleshoot methods, evaluate data quality, and communicate findings to project teams. The ideal candidate will collaborate closely with scientists across functions, contribute to defined research objectives, and serve as a technical resource for histology workflows, instrumentation, and best practices.

This role is based in Waltham, MA without the possibility of being fully remote.

Primary Responsibilities Include:

• Independently plan and perform tissue grossing, processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining for paraffin- and OCT-embedded rodent and NHP samples to support preclinical research objectives; experience with plastic embedding is a plus.
• Develop, optimize, and execute routine and specialized histology and microscopy methods, selecting and adapting approaches based on study needs, tissue type, and scientific objectives.
• Troubleshoot technical issues, investigate unexpected results, and recommend improvements that strengthen specimen quality, reproducibility, throughput, and laboratory workflows.
• Perform microscopic evaluation and quality assessment of stained specimens, compile results, identify relevant observations, and communicate findings and limitations to scientists and project team leaders.
• Maintain histology and microscopy equipment, including processors, microtomes, embedding centers, and automated stainers; coordinate preventive maintenance, calibration, and vendor support as needed.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely laboratory records, protocols, sample tracking, and results in accordance with departmental practices and data integrity standards.
• Apply laboratory safety and quality control standards, proactively identify risks or deviations, and support corrective actions and continuous improvement activities.
• Collaborate effectively with scientists and cross-functional partners to coordinate study activities, manage priorities, and deliver high-quality results within established timelines.
• Share technical expertise, train colleagues on histology methods and instrumentation, and contribute to protocols, standard operating procedures, and best practices.

Education and Skills Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in histology, biology, or a related scientific field with at least 4 years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated expertise in tissue grossing, processing, paraffin and frozen embedding, microtomy, cryosectioning, staining, microscopy, and histologic quality assessment.
• Hands-on experience handling and grossing rodent and NHP tissues is required; experience with plastic embedding is a plus.
• Ability to independently plan and prioritize work, apply scientific and technical judgment, troubleshoot methods, and make recommendations within defined research objectives.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to evaluate data quality, synthesize observations, maintain rigorous documentation, and communicate results clearly to scientific stakeholders.
• Effective collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work independently, contribute to team goals, and provide technical guidance or training to colleagues.
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems, including PRIMA, is a plus.
• Certification as a Histotechnologist (HTL) or Histotechnician (HT) is a plus.

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MA Pay Range 85000 - 110000 USD