Histology technicians work in a laboratory doing tasks that help pathologists diagnose disease. Histology technicians prepare tissue slides for microscopic evaluation using specialized equipment and techniques. They usually learn their skills by earning a two-year associate's degree.
Materials
Histology technicians work with human and animal tissues, bone marrow, and blood and other body fluids that have been obtained from diagnostic, surgical or autopsy procedures.
Techniques
Histology technicians use techniques including dehydrating, embedding, fixing, sectioning and staining to prepare the tissues for microscopic examination.
Preparation and Maintenance
Histology technicians prepare stains and other solutions. They maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, ensuring that everything is in good working order.
Specimen Collection
Job duties may include helping with specimen collection, including assisting during fine-needle aspiration biopsies and gathering specimens during autopsies.
Clerical Tasks
Histology technicians often are required to assist with data entry and other clerical duties essential to the laboratory. They might monitor supply inventory and order new supplies when needed.
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