What Is a Pathologist Assistant and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A pathologist assistant is a specialized health care worker who conducts tests on specimen samples and performs surgical autopsies under licensed pathologists. As a pathology assistant, you may work in a research lab, hospital, medical examiner’s office, or you may choose to be self-employed and take on jobs at multiple facilities. You dissect tissue to acquire specimens, such as biopsies, and analyze those samples to help diagnose patients or determine problems within the cells. While you can do the majority of the procedures performed by a pathologist, you are not able to diagnose patients; the pathologist reviews your observations and suggestions and determines a diagnosis.

To become a pathologist assistant, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in a science field and complete a pathologist assistant program, preferably from a school accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). These programs typically consist of two years of intensive training and result in a master’s degree. Some schools offer a combined program which allows you to complete both your undergraduate and graduate degrees in a shorter time frame. The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) provides information on state licensing requirements that may be needed to practice in your state. The ASCP also administers a board certification exam; consider becoming certified to make you a more valuable candidate for pathologist assistant positions.

Job Summary

The Pathologist Assistant is responsible for performing a variety of duties in a clinical laboratory setting. This includes gross dissection and analysis of tissue, preparation of slides for microscopic examination, and other duties as assigned. The Pathologist Assistant works with the Pathologist in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Pathologist with gross dissection, autopsy, and microscopic examination of specimens
• Prepare slides for microscopic examination
• Maintain accurate records and reports of findings
• Collect and analyze specimens
• Maintain laboratory equipment and supplies
• Assist in teaching and training medical students
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Pathology or related field
• Valid certification in Pathology or related field
• Experience in a clinical laboratory setting preferred
• Knowledge of pathology and laboratory procedures
• Knowledge of safety and health regulations
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Able to work independently and as part of a team