Histologist

The histological Technician, Histology Applications Specialist or Histologist specializes in working with and preparing microscopic tissue samples. They may work in a variety of laboratory settings from medical centers to veterinary clinics.

Normally and histological technician will work in the pathology laboratory of a medical hospital, research institution or even a veterinary clinic. Histologists prepare slides for examination under a microscope, of tissue samples from human, plants or animals. They must have knowledge of pathology and the specialized lab equipment used and staining techniques.

The histologist, under the supervision of the lab tech or physician, will freeze and cut thin samples of tissue to be analyzed microscopically. Their job is to secure the slice sample on a slide and use specialized dye to stain the sample in order to bring out the cellular structures. This allows physicians, pathologists or scientists to identify abnormal cells and monitor cell function. The tech will also need to be familiar with many types of  laboratory equipment and make sure that it is maintained to function properly.

Accuracy is very important and samples are very small so having good attention to detail would be beneficial in this field. Education beyond a high school diploma is normally required and most work is done in a laboratory setting.  Enjoying working as part of a team and being interested in science are also good traits for this profession.