Anatomical Laboratory Specialist

FedWriters, Inc.•Silver Spring, MD

4d•Onsite

About The Position

FWI is building a team to sustain daily operations at the National Museum of Health and Medicine through specialized professional and administrative services. As an Anatomical Laboratory Specialist, you will perform conservation activities for the museum's wet tissue and histological collections while maintaining laboratory safety compliance within a Biosafety Level 2 environment. FWI has been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Washington Post in 2024 and 2025, offering excellent growth opportunities in a collaborative environment. Position is contingent upon contract award Work Schedule and Location:On-Site: This full-time on-site position will work Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:30pm at the National Museum of Health & Medicine in Silver Spring, MD

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Anatomy, Biology, Physical Anthropology, or a related scientific field. Equivalent combination of education and relevant laboratory experience may be considered
5 years of laboratory experience in conservation of anatomical specimens, histological preparation, and/or necropsy/autopsy assistance
Extensive knowledge and skill in applications and methods used in preservation and fixation of tissue specimens, processing, embedding, microtomy, and staining
Basic knowledge of biology, chemistry, and solution preparation acquired through experience, education, and/or on-the-job training
Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of all specialized and general laboratory equipment used in the laboratory
Skilled in creation of electronic spreadsheets and updating databases
Occupational health clearance for use of respirator and work within a BSL-2 (Biosafety Level 2) environment. Must receive OSHA required annual physical for lab technician.

Responsibilities

Performs routine conservation of the museum's wet tissue and histological collections and documentation of conservation activities
Prepares new wet tissue and skeletal preparations following museum protocols and helps to develop and refine same
Routinely works with chemicals and biohazardous materials in accordance with museum policy and procedure as well as federal and state health and safety standards
Assists lab manager in conducting regular safety checks in anatomical laboratories and helps ensure the lab remains compliant with relevant health and safety standards
Maintains strict inventory controls in relocating and transporting specimens between the lab and storage areas and documenting work on appropriate forms and databases
Manages equipment and supplies for anatomical laboratories and submits purchase and service requests as needed
Examines specimens and determines methods of preparation and staining to best demonstrate characteristics to be studied
Performs thorough knowledge and proficiency in tissue orientation and embedding in paraffin wax and proper microtomy and staining techniques of all tissue types, including bone
Provides support for relevant public programs and exhibits as required
Performs weekly operator safety inspections on Emergency Eyewash and Emergency Shower stations
Coordinates for the safe disposition of all regulated medical waste and chemicals in accordance with museum and government regulations