Histopathology Intern

Team Description:

The Pathology Team plays a critical role in the evaluation of both macroscopic and microscopic tissue samples derived from our preclinical studies. The team encompasses specialized units focused on  Anatomic Pathology, Histology, Digital Pathology, and Laboratory Operations.

Job Description and Responsibilities:

As a Histopathology Intern, you will support both routine histology workflows and the development of next-generation tissue preparation and imaging techniques. In this role, you will work closely with pathologists and histology specialists to evaluate tissue-device interactions, with a primary focus on benchmarking, optimizing, and scaling novel volumetric histology pipelines such as tissue clearing and lightsheet microscopy. You will apply foundational biological and laboratory principles in a fast-paced environment and are expected to:

• Assist in the optimization and validation of next-generation histology workflows, specifically focusing on aqueous and solvent-based tissue clearing methods and lightsheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) for 3D tissue visualization
• Help maintain, calibrate, and operate advanced optical hardware, lightsheet imaging systems, and automated histology equipment
• Support routine tissue processing, embedding, sectioning (microtomy), slide preparation, and standard/special staining protocols
• Document experimental protocols, image acquisition parameters, and data analysis pipelines in compliance with Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and laboratory SOPs
• Work cross-functionally with Pathology, Preclinical, and Surgical Engineering teams to prepare tissue samples, acquire high-resolution datasets, and support study deliverables
• Assist with laboratory upkeep, including reagent preparation, chemical and biohazardous waste disposal, and inventory management

Required Qualifications: 

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Biology, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline
• Basic understanding of anatomy, neuroanatomy, and light/fluorescence microscopy principles
• Familiarity with laboratory safety standards, fume hood operation, and handling biohazardous/chemical materials
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with high attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications: 

• 6+ months of relevant academic coursework or wet-lab experience handling biological tissues and standard histology techniques (e.g., tissue fixation, sectioning, or fluorescence imaging)
• Direct hands-on experience or coursework in tissue clearing protocols and lightsheet fluorescence microscopy
• Experience with 3D image analysis software or large volume rendering tools (e.g., Imaris, ImageJ/Fiji, or Python/MATLAB image processing libraries)
• Exposure to medical device research and/or  neuroscience applications
• Proven ability to learn new laboratory equipment quickly and troubleshoot technical procedures

Additional Requirements and Competencies:

• Ability to work flexible hours, including off-hours and weekends
• Comfortable working in a controlled laboratory environment with potential exposure to extreme temperatures, fumes, and biohazardous materials or chemicals, including formalin.
• Ability to lift and maneuver up to 45 pounds to manage large volumes of chemical waste, reposition large animals, and perform other physically demanding tasks as required.