Lead Histotechnologist

Lead HistotechnologistRetro develops therapies for diseases driven by the biology of aging. We focus on cellular reprogramming and autophagy to rejuvenate cell and tissue function with the ultimate aim of adding 10 years to healthy human lifespan.We're building a mission-driven team of accomplished and kind individuals who embrace our startup culture of rapid iteration, transparency, and versatility.We are hiring a Lead Histotechnologist to build and run Retro's first in-house histology capability. You'll be the primary histologist supporting multiple scientific programs - including our Microglia, Tissue Reprogramming, and Autophagy teams - performing FFPE and cryo-sectioning workflows from embedding through staining and imaging. Tissue processing will continue to be outsourced to a CRO; everything else happens in-house with you. You will work in a dedicated histology lab space and be a part of the Scientific Operations team - a close-knit group of dedicated, resourceful humans, handling all things labs, facilities, and logistics.About you:You're a skilled bench histologist who takes pride in producing high-quality sections and stains. You're comfortable working independently, juggling requests from multiple teams, and building workflows from scratch. You're organized, detail-oriented, and proactive - the kind of person who keeps a lab running smoothly without being asked. You communicate clearly with scientists, understand what they need from their tissue, and can advise on best practices from fixation through imaging.What you'll do in this role:Own the day-to-day operation of Retro's histology workflows — managing work prioritization, quality control, and turnaround timelinesIndependently triage and schedule work across programs, communicating realistic timelines, flagging conflicts early, tracking sample throughput, and maintaining organized recordsPerform tissue and organoid embedding, paraffin and frozen sectioning, vibratome sectioning, and slide preparation for multiple scientific teamsConduct IHC and IF staining, including protocol optimization and new antibody validationPerform H&E staining and special stains as neededDevelop and document SOPs for all histology workflows, building up the institutional knowledge for Retro's histology practiceOperate and maintain standard histology equipment - embedding center, microtome, cryostat, vibratome, water baths, fume hood, and associated instrumentsCoordinate with CROs for tissue processing and ensure quality of incoming processed tissuesDecalcify tissues as needed for bone or calcified samplesAssist with imaging of stained sections or coordinate with instrument engineers for imaging supportManage histology supplies inventory, ordering, and lab organizationProvide guidance to scientists on tissue collection, fixation, and handling best practices to ensure downstream qualityYou might thrive in this role if you:Have 5+ years of hands-on histology experience with FFPE workflows - embedding, microtomy, and stainingAre proficient with both paraffin sectioning, cryosectioning, and vibrating sectioningHave experience with IHC and/or IF staining, including antibody titration and protocol troubleshootingHave demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple concurrent requests — you've been the go-to histologist that teams rely onAre naturally organized and detail-oriented - you keep clean records and a clean labCommunicate clearly and effectively - whether discussing tissue orientation with a scientist or coordinating thingsAre hands-on and proactive - you don't wait to be told when something needs to be doneBonus if you have experience with:Biotech, pharmaceutical, or academic research histology core environmentsImage analysis or digital pathology toolsTraining others on histology techniquesGLP or regulated laboratory environments$110,000 - $135,000 a year *At Retro, we don't use titles. New hires join as a "Member of X Team". The expectations for this role are generally aligned to the level of Histology Specialist. Total compensation also includes generous equity and benefits including: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family 401(k) plan with 4% matching Unlimited time off and 10 company holidays per year Annual learning & development stipend Free lunch and snackWe take pride in cultivating an environment that fosters collaboration, open communication, and authenticity. We believe that great results are best delivered by a highly creative team working in concert. We are an equal opportunity employer; we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We are diverse in background and singular in mission.