Pathology Lab Assistant
びょうりえいせいじょしゅ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Medical, Nursing, and Health Occupations
- Middle : Healthcare Assistants
- Minor : Other Healthcare Assistants
Summary
Under the direction of pathologists, they prepare tissue and organ specimens, perform staining, prepare and assist with microscope observations, supporting pathological diagnosis as specialized professionals.
Description
Pathology lab assistants receive tissues or organs excised during surgery, cytology specimens, etc., and prepare specimens according to the instructions of pathologists. They perform sample processing by paraffin embedding or frozen embedding, thin sectioning using a microtome, hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE staining), special staining, immunostaining, and mount slides with coverslips and labels. The prepared specimens serve as materials for pathologists' diagnosis. They also handle preparation for microscope observation, image acquisition using digital scanners, daily inspection and maintenance of inspection equipment, inventory management of consumables and reagents, and safety and hygiene management (biohazard countermeasures). In recent years, the introduction of digital pathology systems has advanced, requiring the acquisition of image analysis techniques and information system operations.
Future Outlook
With an aging population, demand for pathological examinations is on the rise. The introduction of AI support and digital pathology technologies is improving work efficiency, increasing demand for highly specialized technicians.
Personality Traits
Cautious / Cooperative / Meticulous / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Hospital employment / Part-time possible / Private laboratory employment / Shift work
Career Path
Pathology Lab Assistant → Senior Pathology Lab Assistant → Pathology Laboratory Leader → Clinical Laboratory Technician (after qualification) → Pathology Technology Specialist
Required Skills
Biohazard Management / Microtome Operation / Slide Preparation / Tissue Specimen Processing / Tissue Staining Techniques
Recommended Skills
Cytology and Histology / Digital Pathology Image Analysis / Pathology Information System Operation / Stainer Operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minute errors in staining or sectioning can affect diagnostic results. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because the acquisition of new staining techniques and equipment operation skills is required. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Procedures are strictly regulated, and accuracy is required more than originality. |
Related Qualifications
- Cytotechnologist
Aliases
- Pathology Assistant
Related Jobs
- Clinical Laboratory Assistant
- Clinical Laboratory Technician
- Cytotechnologist
- Pathologist