Histotechnologist

Retro • Redwood City, CA

1d

About The Position

Retro is hiring a Histotechnologist to join its growing histology core and support multiple scientific programs, including Microglia, Tissue Reprogramming, and Autophagy. The role performs FFPE and cryo-sectioning workflows from embedding through staining and imaging in a dedicated histology lab, as part of the Scientific Operations team.

The position supports day-to-day histology operations, independently carrying out workflows while managing priorities, quality control, and turnaround timelines. It partners with the histology lead and scientific teams to coordinate work, advises researchers on tissue collection and handling, and helps establish and document histology procedures. The role also maintains equipment, supplies, laboratory organization, and quality oversight of externally processed tissue.

Retro describes its culture as mission-driven and startup-oriented, emphasizing rapid iteration, transparency, versatility, collaboration, open communication, and authenticity. New hires join as a “Member of X Team”; expectations for this role are generally aligned with the level of Histology Specialist.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of hands-on histology experience with FFPE and fresh-frozen workflows, including embedding, microtomy, and staining.
• Proficiency in paraffin sectioning and cryosectioning.
• Experience with IHC and/or IF staining, including antibody titration and protocol troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple concurrent requests.
• Strong organization and attention to detail, including maintaining clean records and a clean laboratory.
• Clear and effective communication skills.
• A hands-on, proactive approach to work.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with multiplex staining techniques.
• Startup experience or experience in resource-constrained environments.
• Experience in GLP or regulated laboratory environments.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute day-to-day histology workflows while managing work prioritization, quality control, and turnaround timelines.
• Partner with the histology lead and scientific teams to triage and schedule work across programs, communicate realistic timelines, flag conflicts, track sample throughput, and maintain organized records.
• Embed tissues and organoids; perform paraffin and frozen sectioning, vibratome sectioning, and slide preparation for multiple scientific teams.
• Conduct IHC and IF staining, including protocol optimization and validation of new antibodies.
• Perform H&E and special stains as needed.
• Support the development and documentation of SOPs for histology workflows.
• Operate and maintain histology equipment, including the embedding center, microtome, cryostat, vibratome, water baths, fume hood, and associated instruments.
• Coordinate with CROs on tissue processing and ensure the quality of incoming processed tissues.
• Decalcify bone or other calcified samples as needed.
• Assist with imaging stained sections or coordinate imaging support with instrument engineers.
• Manage histology supply inventory, ordering, and laboratory organization.
• Guide scientists on tissue collection, fixation, and handling best practices to support downstream quality.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and family.
• 401(k) plan with 4% matching.
• Unlimited time off and 10 company holidays per year.
• Annual learning and development stipend.
• Free lunch and snacks.
• Generous equity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed