Neuromuscular and Electron Microscopy Technician

Hennepin Healthcare•Minneapolis, MN

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Under direct supervision, performs advanced histology testing of moderate to complex difficulty. Uses specialized equipment and processes following established procedures. Demonstrates patient and family centered care behaviors.

Requirements

Completion of a Laboratory Histology Technician training program approved by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
Certified or eligible as a Histology Technician (ASCP), Histology Technologist (ASCP), or Electron Microscopy Technician (MSA)
Experience as an Electron Microscopy Technician examining human tissue
Certified or eligible as a Histology Technician (ASCP), Histology Technologist (ASCP), or Electron Microscopy Technician (MSA)
An approved equivalent combination of education and experience
Customer service skills
Detail oriented
Ability to read and follow written instructions

Nice To Haves

One year of experience
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work independently and self-motivated
Ability to work cohesively and respectfully with a diverse work force and patient population

Responsibilities

Gross muscle and/or nerve biopsy tissues following established protocols including fresh, formalin fixed, EM fixation or nerve teasing
Properly orient and snap freeze muscle and/or nerve tissue utilizing liquid nitrogens
Perform cryotomy of muscle and/or nerve specimens for optimal demonstration of various tissue structures
Perform enzyme histochemistry staining on frozen sections following established procedures
Perform complex procedures such as teasing single strand nerve fibers for pathologist review
Research and work up new staining protocols as directed by medical staff
Utilize advanced knowledge of proper tissue preparation to ensure adequate quality fixation and epon-embedding for Electron microscopy
Trim epon-embedded blocks; cut semi-thin and ultrathin sections by using an ultra-microtome. Place tissue on copper grids and stain grids using Uranyl acetate and Lead citrate staining methods
Exhibit expertise with operation, function, and maintenance of the Transmission Electron microscope. Perform an advanced level of initial ultrastructural examination locating specific pathological features that allow for subsequent diagnosis
Routinely perform digital imaging with morphometric measurements, image organization, distribution and storage
Perform and evaluate quality control, instrument maintenance and troubleshooting processes
Perform routine duties involving laboratory set up, safety, reagent preparation, and cleanup