
Laboratory Technician - Histopathology
- Abuja, FCT
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Receive, verify, and log tissue specimens following established protocols.
- Accurately label and assign unique identifiers to specimens.
- Maintain detailed records of specimen information, ensuring data integrity and traceability.
- Perform gross tissue processing, including trimming and embedding specimens in paraffin or other media.
- Operate and maintain tissue processors for dehydration, clearing, and infiltration of tissues.
- Ensure proper orientation of specimens during embedding to optimize diagnostic quality.
- Perform routine hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining of tissue sections.
- Carry out special stains (e.g., PAS, Masson's trichrome, Giemsa) as requested by the pathologist.
- Apply immunohistochemistry (IHC) and other advanced staining techniques for diagnostic or research purposes.
- Operate and calibrate laboratory equipment, including microtomes, cryostats, tissue processors, and stainers.
- Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments to ensure functionality.
- Keep accurate maintenance logs and report equipment malfunctions promptly.
- Adhere to laboratory quality control (QC) standards to ensure slide preparation accuracy and reproducibility.
- Perform periodic QC checks on reagents, stains, and equipment.
- Participate in internal and external quality assurance programs to maintain accreditation standards.
- Follow laboratory safety guidelines, including handling hazardous chemicals and biological specimens.
- Dispose of waste materials in compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Ensure adherence to laboratory protocols, accreditation requirements, and relevant regulatory standards (e.g., ISO, CAP, NABL).
- Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including specimen logs, staining protocols, and equipment usage.
- Assist in the preparation of diagnostic reports by providing high-quality histological slides.
- Enter data into laboratory information systems (LIS) with accuracy and efficiency.
- Work closely with pathologists, laboratory managers, and other healthcare professionals.
- Provide technical support to colleagues and assist in troubleshooting laboratory issues.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
- Train new technicians or interns in histopathology techniques and laboratory procedures.
- Stay updated on advancements in histopathology and laboratory technologies.
- Attend workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance technical skills.
- Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field.
- Relevant certification as a Histotechnologist (HT) or in the microbiology field is an added advantage.
- Minimum of 1 year experience in a histopathology laboratory setting, demonstrating progressive responsibility and expertise.
- Proficiency in a wide range of histopathological techniques, including special stains, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy.
- Thorough understanding of histopathology principles, including tissue processing, staining techniques, and microscopic interpretation.
- In-depth knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.
- Comprehensive understanding of disease processes and their microscopic manifestations.
- Proficiency in the use of light microscopes, including brightfield, darkfield, and fluorescence microscopy.
- Thorough understanding of quality control and quality assurance procedures in a histopathology laboratory.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and regulations related to handling hazardous chemicals and biological materials.
- Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and other relevant software.
- Proficiency in operating laboratory equipment (microtomes, embedding stations, staining machines)
- Manual dexterity and fine motor skills for precise tissue handling and sectioning.
- Ability to prepare high-quality histological slides.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in all procedures.
- Professional attitude towards work.
- Shares the AMCE's vision.
- Proactive and organized.
- Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers.
- Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members.
- Ability to adapt accordingly.
- High levels of honesty and integrity.