At a Glance
- Tasks: Support in vivo studies by managing the full histology workflow, from necropsy to slide preparation.
- Company: Join a leading preclinical research organisation known for drug discovery and development expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working patterns and a competitive rate based on your experience.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful research while collaborating with scientific teams in a dynamic lab environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in histology and a relevant scientific qualification or equivalent hands-on experience required.
- Other info: Initial 3-month contract with potential for extension or permanent position.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Contract Histology Technician — 3-Month Assignment (with potential to extend) in Hatfield, UK | Fixed-Term / Contract | Full-time or Part-time considered.
We’re working with a leading preclinical research organisation that specialises in high-quality drug discovery and development studies. They are known for their robust expertise in pharmacokinetics, CNS, respiratory, and toxicology research — and they’re now looking to add a skilled Histology Technician to their team on a contract basis.
The Opportunity:
You’ll play a key role in supporting in vivo and toxicology studies by delivering the full histology workflow — from necropsy and tissue collection to embedding, sectioning, staining, and cover slipping. You’ll collaborate closely with scientific teams to ensure accurate, timely preparation of samples for analysis.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Perform necropsies on preclinical species (mainly rodents) according to study protocols and ethical standards.
- Collect, label, and process tissue samples, ensuring precise orientation and documentation.
- Conduct tissue fixation, dehydration, paraffin embedding, microtomy, and slide mounting.
- Perform routine and special staining (e.g., H&E and others as needed).
- Carry out cover slipping (manual or automated) and quality check slides.
- Maintain meticulous lab records and adhere to SOPs and GLP standards.
- Coordinate with in vivo, pathology, and bioanalysis teams to align with project timelines.
- Support general lab upkeep, equipment checks, and inventory management.
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous experience in a preclinical or research histology setting.
- Proven ability to run the full histology workflow from necropsy through to high-quality slides.
- Solid understanding of tissue morphology and high attention to detail.
- Familiarity with GLP or regulated lab environments is a plus.
- Comfortable working with rodent models and handling biological specimens.
- A team player who can also work independently in a fast-paced lab.
- Relevant scientific or technical qualification (or equivalent hands-on experience).
Contract Details:
- Initial 3-month contract with potential to extend or become permanent.
- Flexible working patterns — full-time or part-time considered.
- Competitive rate, depending on experience.
Histology Technician employer: Hlx Life Sciences
Contact Detail:
Hlx Life Sciences Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Histology Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific histology techniques mentioned in the job description, such as necropsy, tissue fixation, and staining methods. Being able to discuss these processes confidently during an interview will demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the preclinical research field, especially those who work in histology. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the latest trends and techniques in histology.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in a lab setting, particularly any roles that involved working with rodent models or in GLP environments. Highlighting your hands-on experience will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company and its projects thoroughly. Understanding their focus on pharmacokinetics and toxicology will allow you to tailor your responses in the interview, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Histology Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Histology Technician position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in a preclinical or research histology setting. Be specific about your familiarity with the full histology workflow and any relevant techniques you've mastered.
Showcase Attention to Detail: Given the importance of precision in histology work, provide examples in your application that demonstrate your attention to detail. Mention any experiences where meticulousness was crucial to your success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalised cover letter that addresses the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Explain why you're a great fit for the role and how your skills align with the company's needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hlx Life Sciences
✨Know Your Histology Workflow
Make sure you can clearly explain the full histology workflow, from necropsy to slide preparation. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences and how they relate to the specific tasks mentioned in the job description.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Highlight your meticulous nature by providing examples of how you've maintained lab records or adhered to SOPs in past roles. This is crucial in a regulated environment, so be ready to discuss your approach to quality control.
✨Familiarity with Rodent Models
Since the role involves working with rodent models, be prepared to talk about your experience handling biological specimens. If you have specific examples of procedures you've performed, share those to demonstrate your comfort level.
✨Teamwork and Independence
This position requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Think of instances where you've successfully collaborated with others, as well as times when you've taken initiative on your own. This will show your versatility in a fast-paced lab setting.