Scientist I, Histology

Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq ARWR) is a commercial stage biopharmaceutical company that develops medicines that treat intractable diseases by silencing the genes that cause them. Using a broad portfolio of RNA chemistries and efficient modes of delivery, Arrowhead therapies trigger the RNA interference mechanism to induce rapid, deep, and durable knockdown of target genes. RNA interference, or RNAi, is a mechanism present in living cells that inhibits the expression of a specific gene, thereby affecting the production of a specific protein. Arrowhead’s RNAi-based therapeutics leverage this natural pathway of gene silencing.

Arrowhead is focused on developing innovative drugs for diseases with a genetic basis, typically characterized by the overproduction of one or more proteins that are involved with disease. The depth and versatility of our RNAi technologies enables us to potentially address conditions in virtually any therapeutic area and pursue disease targets that are not otherwise addressable by small molecules and biologics. Arrowhead is leading the field in bringing the promise of RNAi to address diseases outside of the liver, and our clinical pipeline includes disease targets in the liver and lung with a promising pipeline of preclinical candidates.

Arrowhead’s corporate headquarters is in Pasadena, CA with research and development teams in Madison, WI & San Diego, CA, and a state of the art manufacturing facility in Verona, WI.  Our employees are nimble, science-driven innovators who are collaborating to bring new therapies to patients in need.

The Position

The Scientist I is a key contributor to the Histotechnology team within the Biology Department. In partnership with the Histology Manager and cross-functional study teams, this role supports preclinical drug-development programs by planning and executing tissue collection strategies; processing, embedding, and sectioning specimens; performing histologic and immunohistochemical stains; and summarizing results for study teams. The Scientist I execute a broad range of routine and non-routine histology methods with consistent quality and reproducibility, communicates clearly with stakeholders, and exercises appropriate independence in day-to-day decision making.

This role is onsite 5 days a week in San Diego.

Responsibilities

• Study Support & Communication — Translate study requirements into practical histology work plans (sampling schemes, section levels, stain menus, controls, timelines) and present interim results to program stakeholders.

• Sample Handling & Documentation — Coordinate specimen receipt, accessioning, labeling/barcoding, and chain-of-custody; maintain complete, accurate, audit-ready records in LIMS/ELN or designated systems.

• Processing, Embedding & Sectioning — Perform routine automated tissue processing and paraffin embedding; microtome and cryosection a range of animal tissues at 5–7 µm; complete re-cuts and serial levels as needed with minimal artifacts.

• Staining & Assay Execution — Execute H&E, special stains, and IHC/IF on manual and automated platforms, including antigen retrieval, antibody titration, protocol design, and troubleshooting; contribute to method validation (e.g., RNAscope/miRNAscope, multiplex IHC/IF).

• Microscopy, Imaging & Reporting — Perform microscopic QC, identify representative regions, and use imaging/slide scanning as available to support digital pathology; compile clear data summaries and presentations for study leads.

• Quality, Safety & Continuous Improvement — Adhere to SOPs and applicable quality expectations; follow biosafety and chemical-safety procedures; participate in deviations/CAPA as appropriate; contribute to team-based improvements (e.g., 5S/Lean).

• Instrumentation & Inventory — Operate and perform routine maintenance/calibration checks for microtomes, cryostats, stainers, printers, microscopes; track reagents/antibodies and coordinate ordering and lot qualification.

Requirements

• BS or MS degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related discipline.

• BS with a minimum of seven (7) years relevant histology laboratory experience or a MS with 3+ years of academic/industry laboratory experience.

• Proficiency with microtomes, cryostats, cassette/slide printers, automated slide stainers, and microscopes; practical knowledge of tissue composition.

• Extensive experience in IHC/IF staining, protocol development, validation, and troubleshooting (including antibody titration and antigen retrieval).

• Strong project- and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple studies and deadlines; effective written and verbal communication.

• Advanced computer skills (e.g., Excel and imaging software);

• Ability to process valuable/delicate samples and to prepare tissue for pathologist interpretation.

Preferred

• Degree from an accredited Histotechnology program, HT or HTL(ASCP) certification

• Experience validating RNAscope/miRNAscope and multiplex IHC/IF across multiple tissues/species.

• Familiarity with LIMS/ELN.

• Familiarity with digital pathology and whole-slide imaging

California pay range
$115,000 — $125,000 USD

Arrowhead provides competitive salaries and an excellent benefit package.

Candidates must have current, valid authorization to work in the country where this role is located.

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