Research Associate-II/Senior Research Associate, Histology (6-Month Contract)

The Bioanalytical group at SonoThera is seeking to hire an enthusiastic (Senior) Research Associate to support gene therapy drug development by performing histological procedures. We seek candidates who think critically and have the desire and ability to learn new techniques. This position requires adaptability and an ability to perform at a high level in a fast-paced environment. This is a 6-month contract position at 40 hours per week, with the possibility of extension or conversion to full-time employment. This position is 100% on-site and requires working from the office Monday through Friday. The role reports to the Sr. Director, Vivarium Operations & Bioanalytics.

In this position, you will play an integral role in histology analysis by preparing and evaluating biological tissue samples that support biomarker assessment and gene therapy programs. You will partner with teams across the organization to receive mouse, rat, and NHP tissue samples and to:

• →Process, embed, and section FFPE and fresh frozen tissue samples.
• →Perform routine and specialized staining, including H&E, PAS, Trichrome, ISH, IHC, and IF.
• →Image stained slides and support qualitative and quantitative assessment of results.
• →Track sample accessioning, inventory, and chain of custody in the electronic lab notebook.
• →Document methods and results in SOPs and study records, and contribute to assay optimization.

• Advanced proficiency in FFPE tissue processing, embedding and sectioning and in mounting and cryosectioning of fresh frozen samples for a variety of tissues and species.
• Experience preparing slides for DNA and RNA analysis (RNAscope, Visium, etc.) is a plus.
• Experience performing routine stains such as H&E, PAS, and Masson’s Trichrome
• Experience performing specialized stains such as IHC and ISH using autostainers such as Leica Bond RX, Ventana or similar. Optimizing antibodies for IHC/IF is a plus.
• Experience using imaging platforms such as VS200, 3dhistec P150/P250, Aperio Imagescope, Revolve or similar
• Experience using image analysis platforms such as HALO, Visiopharm or similar is a plus
• Training or hands-on experience in sample management workflows.
• Exceptional organizational skills including SOP documentation and record-keeping using ELN platforms such as Benchling.
• Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biomedical science, or a related field, with at least 2 years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Industry experience preferred.