Histologist
Histologists are medical professionals who help with the detection, diagnosis and treatment of certain diseases by studying the microscopic make-up of tissues, cells, and bodily fluids. He or she tests and identifies bacteria, parasites, and various other forms of microorganisms. Histologists determine blood types, test for levels of drugs or foreign substances in the blood, and establish reasons for why a patient my not be responding to treatments or prescription drugs. He or she uses a wide variety of specialized lab equipment, chemical processes, and computer equipment to analyze specimen samples.
Histologists may also be responsible for assisting other laboratory personnel, staining tissue samples, handling hazardous chemicals, determining which reactive processes to utilize, training staff, data entry, complying with histological protocols, maintaining lab equipment, analyzing slides, preparing solutions, and compiling reports.
A Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, microbiology, statistics, biological science, medical technology, or other related science field is required for entry-level histologist positions. Histologists are also required to have passed a board examination, hold a current histology certification, and have adequate laboratory work experience. The completion of a one-year clinical internship, or histopathology laboratory training program may be required.
The typical average salary of an experienced histologist is about $50,000 per year. Entry-level histologists earn an average salary of about $26,400 per year, while the median average for the industry is between $32,800 and $41,000 per year.
