Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania Career Overview
As a Histological Research Coordinator, you play a vital role in the field of biomedical research, particularly within the realms of histology and pathology. Your primary responsibilities center around overseeing and facilitating the effective progression of histological studies, ensuring that all research protocols are adhered to and that the quality of tissue samples is maintained throughout the research process.
Key aspects of your role include:
Project Management: You are responsible for planning, organizing, and managing histological research projects. This involves coordinating with various stakeholders, including researchers, pathologists, and laboratory personnel to ensure deadlines and objectives are met.
Sample Preparation: You supervise the preparation of tissue samples, which is essential for accurate analysis and diagnosis. This includes ensuring that samples are adequately processed, stored, and archived, adhering to strict protocols to maintain the integrity of the samples.
Data Oversight: You oversee the collection and management of data related to histological research. This includes ensuring that all data is accurately recorded, maintained, and analyzed as per the research design, contributing to credible findings.
Compliance: Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and institutional guidelines is a critical part of your role. You help to safeguard the ethical considerations of research involving human and animal tissues, maintaining a high level of quality and integrity in the research conducted.
Collaboration: Working closely with a variety of professionals in the medical and research fields is a hallmark of your position. You facilitate effective communication among researchers and help to foster an environment conducive to innovative research.
Training and Mentorship: As an experienced professional in histotechnology, you may also be involved in training new staff and providing ongoing guidance to laboratory personnel. Your expertise helps cultivate future professionals in the field, promoting a culture of learning and precision.
Histological research coordinators are essential to advancing scientific knowledge in health and disease, contributing significantly to the development of diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions. Your role encompasses a blend of administrative, scientific, and leadership skills, making you a key figure in fostering research excellence within the biotechnology and healthcare industries.
Histological Research Coordinator Salary in Pennsylvania
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania
To become a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania, you need to fulfill specific educational requirements and training programs. These typically involve obtaining a specialized degree in a relevant field.
Histologic Technician: Completing an associate degree in Histologic Technology or Histologic Technician programs equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed for this role, including the preparation of tissue samples for microscopic examination.
Histologic Technology: A bachelor's degree in Histologic Technology provides a more in-depth understanding of histology and prepares you for advanced responsibilities within the laboratory setting.
Cell Biology and Anatomy: Earning a degree in Cell Biology and Anatomy will provide you with essential knowledge about cellular structures and functions, which is important for coordinating research involving tissue samples and cellular analysis.
Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences: Pursuing a degree in Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences enhances your understanding of the complex interactions between cells and anatomical structures, making you well-suited for the intricacies of histological research.
Pathologist Assistant: Completing a master's degree in Pathologist Assistant programs trains you to work closely with pathologists and management of laboratory operations, which is beneficial for a coordinator overseeing histological research activities.
In addition to educational requirements, obtaining certification through organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) can further validate your qualifications and enhance your career progression.
Best Schools to become a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania 2024
National University
University of California-Santa Barbara
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
University of Southern California
Northwestern University
- Apply knowledge of health and disease causes to evaluate new laboratory techniques and procedures to examine tissue samples.
- Process and prepare histological slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by pathologists.
- May solve technical or instrument problems or assist with research studies.
Histological Research Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Pennsylvania
Attention to Detail: You must possess a strong eye for accuracy, ensuring that samples are prepared and analyzed correctly to avoid errors in data collection and reporting.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with histological techniques, equipment, and staining methods is essential. You should be comfortable operating microscopes and other laboratory instruments.
Analytical Skills: The ability to interpret complex data and histological results is critical. You need to synthesize information that contributes to research findings effectively.
Organizational Skills: Effective management of resources, samples, and data is necessary for smooth laboratory operations. You should be adept at tracking multiple projects simultaneously.
Communication Skills: You must communicate clearly and efficiently with team members, researchers, and outside stakeholders. Written and verbal communication skills are vital for conveying research findings and protocols.
Problem-Solving Abilities: The capacity to identify issues as they arise and think critically to devise practical solutions is important in a dynamic research environment.
Collaboration: You will often work in a team setting, so an ability to collaborate with others, including scientists, lab technicians, and administrative staff, is key to achieving research objectives.
Project Management: Being able to plan, execute, and oversee research projects from initiation to conclusion is beneficial. This includes understanding timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with laboratory regulations, safety protocols, and ethical guidelines governing histological research is necessary to ensure compliance.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new methodologies, technologies, and research focuses is important as the field of histology evolves continuously.
Job Duties for Histological Research Coordinators
Compile and maintain records of preventive maintenance and instrument performance checks according to schedule and regulations.
Compile materials for distribution to pathologists, such as surgical working drafts, requisitions, and slides.
Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
Label making software
- Brady Specimen Labeling System
- Specimen labeling system software
Medical software
- Laboratory information system LIS
- MEDITECH software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Job Market and Opportunities for Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania
The job market for Histological Research Coordinators in Pennsylvania presents a range of opportunities shaped by an increasing demand for professionals in this field. Here are key insights into the current landscape:
Demand for Histological Research Coordinators: There is a steady demand for Histological Research Coordinators as healthcare institutions, research laboratories, and academic settings continue to expand their capabilities in biomedical research. The growth in personalized medicine and targeted therapies has also heightened the need for professionals skilled in histology.
Growth Potential: The field is expected to see growth, driven by advancements in medical research and technology. This includes the adoption of new histological techniques and the increased focus on the analysis of biological samples in both clinical and research environments. Coordinators with expertise in digital pathology are particularly well-positioned as the field evolves.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Philadelphia: Home to numerous research institutions, hospitals, and universities, Philadelphia offers a vibrant job market for Histological Research Coordinators. The presence of academic medical centers facilitates a collaborative environment where research is a top priority.
- Pittsburgh: The city has a growing biotechnology sector, bolstered by institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and the UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) Health System. Opportunities here often intersect with innovation in medical technology and cancer research.
- Hershey: The Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and its associated research facilities provide additional opportunities for histological research roles. This location emphasizes clinical research, especially in pathology and oncology.
- Allentown and surrounding areas: As part of the Lehigh Valley, this region is seeing growth in healthcare services, creating demand for histological professionals within hospitals and laboratories.
Networking and Professional Development: Engaging with professional organizations and attending regional conferences can enhance your visibility. Tapping into local academic partnerships and research initiatives can also provide insights into emerging opportunities.
Employment Sectors: Histological Research Coordinators find roles in a variety of settings:
- Academic and research institutions
- Hospital laboratories
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
- Clinical research organizations (CROs)
The job market for Histological Research Coordinators in Pennsylvania is dynamic, offering numerous pathways for career advancement and specialization as the demand for histological services continues to grow.
Top Related Careers to Histological Research Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
An authoritative body providing resources on clinical pathology and laboratory science. They offer career information, certifications, and professional development opportunities.
ASCP WebsiteNational Society for Histotechnology (NSH)
This organization promotes the field of histotechnology through education, advocacy, and networking opportunities. Their website includes resources on training, certifications, and job listings.
NSH WebsiteAmerican Registry of Pathology (ARP)
A resource for those looking to enhance their knowledge in pathology and histology. They provide publications, educational courses, and career resources.
ARP WebsiteNational Institutes of Health (NIH)
Offers a vast array of research articles, studies, and resources related to histopathology and biomedical research. The NIH library can be particularly useful for accessing relevant journals.
NIH WebsitePennsylvania State University – College of Medicine
Provides extensive resources for those interested in histology and related fields, including courses, research opportunities, and faculty contacts for networking.
Penn State College of Medicine WebsiteSociety for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (SHI)
A resource center for those interested in histocompatibility and immunogenetics. They offer education, research funding opportunities, and networking events.
SHI WebsiteAmerican Association of Clinical Chemistry (AACC)
Provides resources on laboratory medicine, including accreditation, education, and job opportunities for laboratory professionals.
AACC WebsiteCareerOneStop
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, this site offers career exploration tools, including detailed occupational information, job listings, and training resources for histological research coordinators.
CareerOneStop Website
Utilizing these resources can enhance your education, networking, and professional development as a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania
What is a Histological Research Coordinator?
A Histological Research Coordinator is responsible for overseeing and coordinating histological research projects. This includes managing the preparation and analysis of tissue samples, ensuring compliance with protocols, and collaborating with other researchers and laboratory staff.What qualifications do I need to become a Histological Research Coordinator?
Typically, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, histology, or medical technology. Advanced degrees or certifications in histotechnology, pathology, or laboratory management may enhance your qualifications.What skills are important for a Histological Research Coordinator?
Key skills include attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, effective communication, and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with laboratory techniques and protocols, as well as data management and analysis, are also essential.What are the typical job duties of a Histological Research Coordinator?
Your duties may include managing research projects, coordinating specimen collection and processing, maintaining laboratory quality control, conducting histological analyses, and preparing reports for research findings.Where can I find job opportunities as a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania?
Job opportunities can be found in academic institutions, hospitals, private research laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies. Websites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and specialized job boards in healthcare and research often list available positions.What is the average salary for a Histological Research Coordinator in Pennsylvania?
The average salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer, but you can generally expect to earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually. It is advisable to research salary data from reliable sources or conduct informational interviews for more precise figures.What are the career advancement opportunities for a Histological Research Coordinator?
With experience and additional qualifications, you may advance to higher management positions within research teams or laboratories, such as Lab Manager or Director of Research. You could also transition into specialized research roles or pursue academic opportunities.Is certification important for a Histological Research Coordinator?
While certification is not always required, it can significantly enhance your credibility and job prospects. Certifications from organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) may be particularly valuable.What types of research do Histological Research Coordinators typically work on?
You may be involved in various research areas, including cancer research, developmental biology, pharmacology, and pathology. The specific focus can depend on the institution or laboratory you work for.What are the working conditions like for a Histological Research Coordinator?
Most Histological Research Coordinators work in laboratory settings, which may include exposure to chemicals and biological materials. Safety protocols are necessary, and you will typically spend long hours standing or sitting in lab environments.What professional organizations should I consider joining?
You may find it beneficial to join organizations such as the National Society for Histotechnology (NSH) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). These organizations offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.