Histologists, who may also be known as histotechnologists, work in medical labs. They prepare samples of human tissue to be examined by pathologists. This work is a key step in the process of diagnosing diseases or other health problems.

The main function of histologists is taking tissue samples and preparing them for laboratory examination. Steps in this process include staining tissue, cutting it into very thin slices, and mounting samples on glass slides for viewing with microscopes. Some histologists also supervise other workers or manage overall laboratory operations. By performing these tasks, they contribute in an important way to the world of health care.

A related category is that of the histologic technician. A technician is involved in work that is similar to that of a histologist, but technicians have less training and they work within a more narrowly focused range of job tasks.

Typically, histologists are employed in clinical pathology laboratories. Some of these facilities are based in hospitals, while others operate as independent labs.

There are two basic paths to becoming a histologist. One is to enroll in a college program in this field. The second approach is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a discipline such as chemistry or biology and then complete a year of experience in an appropriate laboratory setting. After completion of training, students also take a national exam to become certified.

Like most other lab-related occupations, histology offers solid career prospects. The U.S. Department of Labor projects that job growth for clinical laboratory workers—a category including histologists—will be faster than the average for all occupations through 2014. The growth of the population, especially of older citizens who have a tendency to experience more healthcare problems, will undoubtedly support a continued need for trained people in this field.

Advancing technology should also create a demand for highly trained laboratory specialists. At the same time, improved laboratory techniques may make it possible for a given lab to operate with fewer staff members, thus moderately limiting job opportunities. But the need to replace histologists who leave their positions for retirement or other reasons will continue.

The salaries for histotechnologists average around $41,000 per year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Most earn between $33,000 and $45,000 annually.

To succeed at the training involved and the actual job experience, you need the ability to understand science and an aptitude for doing precise work. You also should have the right personality for working indoors in a somewhat confined setting, and the patience to perform repetitive functions.

For more details about pursuing a career in histology, contact the following organizations:

• American Society for Clinical Pathology, 33 West Monroe, Suite 1600, Chicago, IL 60603, www.ascp.org
  
• National Society for Histotechnology, 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 502, Bowie, MD 20716-2604, www.nsh.org.

Article courtesy of www.careersandcolleges.com