Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

City/State: White Plains, New York Department: EMS PHYS-PATHOLOGY Work Shift: Day Work Days: 75 Scheduled Hours: 9 AM-5 PM Hours Per Pay Period: 75 Pay Rate/Range: $83,239.46-$124,880.93 Job Summary The Pathologists' Assistant performs macroscopic evaluation, dissection, and gross description of surgical specimens, ranging from biopsies to complex oncologic cases. This role independently manages all aspects of gross pro-section, including specimen sampling and reporting, and collaborates with pathologists during dissections and intraoperative consultations to support diagnostic accuracy and cancer staging. Serves as a key clinical partner to pathologists and operational leadership.

Essential Functions

Understand and adhere to the WPH performance standards, policies, and behaviors. Maintain 60 ASCP approved CME credits over a three-year period, predominantly in advanced level anatomic pathology to maintain licensure. Prioritize and manage specimens according to CAP Cancer Protocols and AJCC Cancer Staging Manual. Assure appropriate specimen accessioning and labeling of surgical pathology specimens.

Review pertinent clinical history and information, including imaging studies, laboratory results, radiographs, and operative records to ensure appropriate dissection and description is performed. Perform macroscopic examination, dissection, and tissue selection for all specimen types—from routine biopsies to complex cancer resections.

Perform specialized procedures such as: Decalcification Safe operation of the grossing table and cryostat, embedding, mounting, cutting, staining, cover slipping Intraoperative consultations for specimen adequacy and margin evaluation Renal biopsy screening and core splitting for electron microscopy, immunofluorescence and light microscopy Muscle and Nerve Biopsy preparation Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy preparation Tumor mapping and specimen diagramming Bone saw operation Collection of samples for ancillary studies, including but limited to: Lymphoma protocol & Flow Cytometric analysis Download cassettes from LIS and/or print additional cassettes as needed for tissue submission.

Dictate the gross description for pathology report based on macroscopic evaluation of surgical specimens by collecting the essential data elements, ensuring inclusion of accurate CPT coding. Maintain and update voice recognition templates; ensure backup dictation systems are aligned and troubleshoot as necessary. Load tissue processors and troubleshoot operational issues. Maintain photographic documentation and assist with imaging for tumor boards, surgeon requests, and research protocols.

Identify and address information system issues affecting gross room workflows in collaboration with appropriate personnel. Review and follow laboratory policies and procedure manuals, and complete documentation as required by regulatory accrediting agencies. Ensure equipment maintenance records are accurate and current. Train and mentor grossing technologist and maintain documentation of all training.

Receive supervision from the Anatomic Pathology Medical Director, Anatomic Pathology faculty, Operational Administrative Director, Supervisor, Lead PA or designees. Maintain inventory of designated gross room supplies. Complete all annual mandatory training, in‐services, and continue education as required. Communicate effectively with pathologists and histology laboratory staff to support collaborative workflow. Prepare specimens for histology control tissue as needed. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree from a NAACLS accredited Pathologists' Assistant program or equivalent. (Required) Master's degree preferred; less than 1 year laboratory experience preferred. Lab experience preferred (Low proficiency). AAPA Certified Pathologists' Assistant – AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF PATHOLOGISTS' ASSISTANTS (AAPA) – (Preferred) Pathologists' Assistant – New York State Board of Nursing NYS – (Upon Hire Required) ASCP – International Medical Laboratory Scientist – AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR CLINICAL PATHOLOGY (ASCP) – (Preferred) White Plains Hospital Medical Center is an equal employment opportunity employer. A‐E‐O‐P‐QM.