The Histology Lead performs multifaceted testing in a high complexity clinical diagnostic laboratory. The incumbent trains and develops team members and collaborates with the wider Laboratory Operations Team to move samples effectively through the workflow. This role also completes cutting, mounting, staining, and batching slides. This position can operate independently given deep experience in the function.
This is a regulated position and additional information may be available from FMI Quality Assurance regarding regulatory guidelines.
Key Responsibilities
Schedule and manage processes of assigned tests or components of the tests in accordance with assay run schedule, accurately, within Turn Around Time (TAT), and always in compliance with written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Operate a microtome to produce slides or curls from paraffin blocks.
Prepare and initiate samples for nucleic acid extraction.
Manage sample movement through lab facilities.
Ensure and maintain molecular safe integrity and quality of the specimens.
Author and edit relevant SOPs to ensure regulatory compliance and to reflect process improvements.
Interview, hire, and train incoming laboratory team members to perform tasks relevant to their position, and maintain availability to answer questions or otherwise support less experienced staff members.
Represent the Histology team in meetings.
Answer process questions, troubleshoot equipment and facilitate interdepartmental projects.
Perform data entry with onsite pathologists, including sample quality assessments and measurements.
Assist in attributing and debulking clinical and research study patient samples.
Maintain adequate stock and efficient use of supplies necessary for performing all procedures and preparation of reagents as required.
Maintain proper documentation including proper specimen handling, labeling, and quality control measures.
Perform quality control testing where required.
Participate in biohazard, chemical, and general safety and other continuing education programs.
Own departmental projects.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
Associate's Degree
5+ years of professional histology experience in a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) / College of American Pathologists (CAP)-certified laboratory
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor of Science Degree in a Biological or Life Science
Strong interpersonal skills that include excellent skills in written and oral communication, collaboration, and problem solving
Excellent computer/data entry skills.
Demonstrated attention to detail and strong organizational skills
Demonstrated experience handling multiple tasks at once
Ability to work independently as well as collaborate with peers in a fast-paced and cross-functional results-oriented team environment
Demonstrated experience working within tight timelines for successful execution of project and program goals
Demonstrated history of working well under pressure while maintaining a professional demeanor
Demonstrated history of prioritizing and thoroughly following up on assigned tasks
Demonstrated history of working in a fast-paced environment
Demonstrated history of adapting to changing procedures, policies and work environment
Ability to perform work in a laboratory environment and in the presence of chemicals and reagents
Understanding of HIPAA and importance of privacy of patient data
Commitment to FMI values: patients, innovation, collaboration, and passion
Foundation Medicine, Inc. (FMI) began with an idea - to simplify the complex nature of cancer genomics, bringing cutting-edge science and technology to everyday cancer care. Our approach generates insights that help doctors match patients to more treatment options and helps accelerate the development of new therapies. Foundation Medicine is the culmination of talented people coming together to realize an important vision, and the work we do every day impacts real lives.
Foundation Medicine is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, age, or national origin. Further, qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability or protected veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. See also FMI's EEO Statement and EEO is the Law and Supplement . If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know by completing this form . (EOE/AAP Employer)