Principal Scientist I - Molecular Histology Scientist

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, validate, and implement tissue-based assays, including immunohistochemistry (IHC), multiplex immunofluorescence, and in situ hybridization (ISH/RNAscope).
• Serve as a molecular histology subject matter expert by evaluating antibodies, probes, controls, and assay strategies to generate robust, reproducible, and scientifically meaningful data.
• Operate, maintain, and optimize automated staining platforms, including Ventana ULTRA and Leica BOND systems, while developing automated workflows for IHC and ISH assays.
• Troubleshoot complex technical challenges and establish best practices for assay performance and quality control.
• Establish standardized protocols, acceptance criteria, troubleshooting guides, and assay performance metrics.
• Utilize digital pathology workflows, including whole-slide imaging, image analysis, and data management using LIMS and electronic laboratory notebook (eLN) platforms.
• Maintain accurate, contemporaneous, and traceable experimental records in approved electronic systems.
• Partner with pathologists and multidisciplinary project teams to support objectives with clear communication.
• Prepare clear study summaries, technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for project teams.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and implementation of emerging technologies that enhance laboratory capabilities and scientific impact.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety, quality, documentation, and data integrity standards while maintaining sample traceability and study records.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelors or Master’s Degree required in Biological Sciences, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or related scientific discipline with 8+ years directly relevant laboratory experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular localization techniques including: Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Multiplex IHC/Immunofluorescence, In Situ Hybridization (ISH), RNAscope and related RNA detection technologies.
• Proven expertise in development, optimization, validation, and troubleshooting of tissue-based assays.
• Strong experience with automated staining platforms including Ventana ULTRA and/or Leica BOND systems.
• Working knowledge of histology workflows, tissue processing, fixation methods, and sample preparation techniques.
• Experience with whole-slide imaging systems, digital pathology platforms, and image analysis tools.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to data quality and scientific rigor.
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience supporting drug discovery, translational medicine, investigative pathology, or preclinical safety programs.
• Experience working with rodent, non-human primate, and human tissues.
• Experience with multiplex spatial biology technologies, spatial transcriptomics, or advanced tissue imaging approaches.
• Experience with digital pathology image analysis software and quantitative image analysis workflows.
• Demonstrated record of scientific publications, presentations, or technical contributions.