[Core] [25% incumbents] Cut sections of body tissues for microscopic examination, using microtomes.
  DWAs: Collect biological specimens from patients.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Embed tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks, or infiltrate tissue specimens with wax.
  DWAs: Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Mount tissue specimens on glass slides.
  DWAs: Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Stain tissue specimens with dyes or other chemicals to make cell details visible under microscopes.
  DWAs: Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Freeze tissue specimens.
  DWAs: Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or microincinerate tissue samples.
  DWAs: Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Archive diagnostic material, such as histologic slides and blocks.
  DWAs: Prepare materials for preservation, storage, or display.

[Core] [25% incumbents] Maintain laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, mass spectrometers, microtomes, immunostainers, tissue processors, embedding centers, and water baths.
  DWAs: Maintain medical laboratory equipment.

[EMERGING:New] Load slides onto staining equipment.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:3.50 lvl:3.38) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Monitoring (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Speaking (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Science (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  Writing (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Active Learning (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Mathematics (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — Using mathematics to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Chemistry (imp:3.84 lvl:4.32) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Biology (imp:3.75 lvl:3.71) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  English Language (imp:3.32 lvl:3.08) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Administrative (imp:3.04 lvl:3.44) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Administration and Management (imp:2.80 lvl:3.12) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Education and Training (imp:2.72 lvl:3.12) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Computers and Electronics (imp:2.68 lvl:3.08) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Mathematics (imp:2.64 lvl:2.58) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Production and Processing (imp:2.56 lvl:2.64) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.46 lvl:2.04) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:2.40 lvl:2.24) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:2.28 lvl:1.84) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Mechanical (imp:2.16 lvl:2.04) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.04 lvl:1.80) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Law and Government (imp:1.96 lvl:1.48) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Engineering and Technology (imp:1.84 lvl:1.56) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Psychology (imp:1.80 lvl:1.36) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Telecommunications (imp:1.80 lvl:0.88) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Physics (imp:1.72 lvl:1.48) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.71 lvl:1.04) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Communications and Media (imp:1.52 lvl:1.00) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Design (imp:1.40 lvl:0.80) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Transportation (imp:1.40 lvl:0.92) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.32 lvl:0.80) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.28 lvl:0.56) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.28 lvl:0.56) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Building and Construction (imp:1.20 lvl:0.40) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.20 lvl:0.52) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Food Production (imp:1.16 lvl:0.32) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Foreign Language (imp:1.16 lvl:0.28) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Geography (imp:1.12 lvl:0.20) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  History and Archeology (imp:1.12 lvl:0.20) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Fine Arts (imp:1.08 lvl:0.28) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform

--- ABILITIES ---
  Near Vision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.75 lvl:3.38) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.62 lvl:4.00) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.50 lvl:3.25) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.50 lvl:3.50) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Information Ordering (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.25 lvl:2.88) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.25 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Oral Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Written Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Control Precision (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.12 lvl:2.50) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Selective Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:2.38) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Perceptual Speed (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Reaction Time (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Far Vision (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Visualization (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Trunk Strength (imp:2.75 lvl:2.00) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.38 lvl:1.88) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.25 lvl:1.50) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Depth Perception (imp:2.25 lvl:1.38) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Number Facility (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Rate Control (imp:2.12 lvl:1.38) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Originality (imp:2.00 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Time Sharing (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Static Strength (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Stamina (imp:2.00 lvl:1.12) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Response Orientation (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.25 lvl:0.12) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Sound Localization (imp:1.12 lvl:0.25) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.04 lvl:3.96) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.92 lvl:3.72) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.88 lvl:4.12) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.88 lvl:3.71) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.88 lvl:3.56) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Getting Information (imp:3.76 lvl:3.36) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.68 lvl:3.32) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:3.68 lvl:3.88) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.60 lvl:3.88) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.58 lvl:3.88) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.50 lvl:4.08) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.36 lvl:3.24) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Working with Computers (imp:3.32 lvl:2.52) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.28 lvl:4.24) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Processing Information (imp:3.20 lvl:3.24) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.88 lvl:2.84) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:2.88 lvl:3.16) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:2.84 lvl:2.84) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.84 lvl:2.92) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.80 lvl:2.72) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.72 lvl:2.44) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Thinking Creatively (imp:2.68 lvl:2.72) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.68 lvl:2.32) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:2.67 lvl:2.28) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.64 lvl:2.38) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.64 lvl:2.04) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.58 lvl:2.12) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:2.48 lvl:2.36) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.40 lvl:2.24) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.40 lvl:3.24) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.36 lvl:2.04) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.32 lvl:2.24) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.29 lvl:2.00) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.24 lvl:2.44) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.21 lvl:1.64) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.20 lvl:1.80) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.00 lvl:1.56) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.56 lvl:0.96) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:1.48 lvl:0.84) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:1.36 lvl:0.64) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:1.24 lvl:0.36) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Dependability (imp:2.65) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:2.06) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:1.82) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.16) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Perseverance (imp:1.15) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.07) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Cooperation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Cautiousness (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.94) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Self-Control (imp:0.75) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.48) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Adaptability (imp:0.42) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Initiative (imp:0.28) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Sincerity (imp:0.27) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Optimism (imp:0.01) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Humility (imp:-0.04) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Empathy (imp:-0.06) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.21) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Innovation (imp:-0.34) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.34) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.55) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.25 lvl:2.88) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:2.62) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Time Management (imp:3.00 lvl:2.62) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.88 lvl:2.38) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.88 lvl:2.38) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Operation and Control (imp:2.75 lvl:2.38) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.38 lvl:2.00) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Instructing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.25 lvl:1.50) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.12 lvl:1.50) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:1.62) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Persuasion (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Negotiation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Technology Design (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Programming (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Repairing (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : N/A
  annual_median    : N/A
  annual_pct10     : N/A
  annual_pct25     : N/A
  annual_pct75     : N/A
  annual_pct90     : N/A
  annual_mean      : N/A
  hourly_median    : N/A

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : N/A
  lowest_state     : N/A
  dispersion_ratio : N/A

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (0 total) ---

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (0 total) ---

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Histology
match_score        : 0.6000
wikidata_qid       : Q7168
word_count         : 2,123
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Histology
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T21:44:32.627034Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
Histology, also known as microscopic anatomy, microanatomy or histoanatomy, is the branch of biology that studies the microscopic anatomy of biological tissues. Histology is the microscopic counterpart to gross anatomy, which looks at larger structures visible without a microscope. 
Historically, microscopic anatomy was divided into organology, the study of organs, histology, the study of tissues, and cytology, the study of cells, although modern usage places all of these topics under the field of histology. In medicine, histopathology is the branch of histology that includes the microscopic identification and study of diseased tissue. In the field of paleontology, the term paleohistology refers to the histology of fossil organisms.


== Biological tissues ==


=== Animal tissue classification ===

There are four basic types of animal tissues: muscle tissue, nervous tissue, connective tissue, and epithelial tissue. All animal tissues are considered to be subtypes of these four principal tissue types (for example, blood is classified as connective tissue, since the blood cells are suspended in an extracellular matrix, the plasma).

 .


=== Plant tissue classification ===

For plants, the study of their tissues falls under the field of plant anatomy, with the following four main types:

Dermal tissue
Vascular tissue
Ground tissue
Meristematic tissue


== Medical histology ==
Histopathology is the branch of histology that includes the microscopic identification and study of diseased tissue. It is an important part of anatomical pathology and surgical pathology, as accurate diagnosis of cancer and other diseases often requires histopathological examination of tissue samples. Trained physicians, frequently licensed pathologists, perform histopathological examination and provide diagnostic information based on their observations.


=== Occupations ===
The field of histology that includes the preparation of tissues for microscopic examination is known as histotechnology. Job titles for the trained personnel who prepare histological specimens for examination are numerous and include histotechnicians, histotechnologists, histology technicians and technologists, medical laboratory technicians, and biomedical scientists.


== Sample preparation ==
Most histological samples need preparation before microscopic observation; these methods depend on the specimen and method of observation.


=== Fixation ===

Chemical fixatives are used to preserve and maintain the structure of tissues and cells; fixation also hardens tissues which aids in cutting the thin sections of tissue needed for observation under the microscope. Fixatives generally preserve tissues (and cells) by irreversibly cross-linking proteins. The most widely used fixative for light microscopy is 10% neutral buffered formalin, or NBF (4% formaldehyde in phosphate buffered saline).
For electron microscopy, the most commonly used fixative is glutaraldehyde, usually as a 2.5% solution in phosphate buffered saline. Other fixatives used for electron microscopy are osmium tetroxide or uranyl acetate.
The main action of these aldehyde fixatives is to cross-link amino groups in proteins through the formation of methylene bridges (−CH2−), in the case of formaldehyde, or by C5H10 cross-links in the case of glutaraldehyde. This process, while preserving the structural integrity of the cells and tissue can damage the biological functionality of proteins, particularly enzymes.
Formalin fixation leads to degradation of mRNA, miRNA, and DNA as well as denaturation and modification of proteins in tissues. However, extraction and analysis of nucleic acids and proteins from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues is possible using appropriate protocols.


=== Selection and trimming ===

Selection is the choice of relevant tissue in cases where it is not necessary to put the entire original tissue mass through further processing. The remainder may remain fixed in case it needs to be examined at a later time.
Trimming is the cutting of tissue samples in order to expose the relevant surfaces for later sectioning. It also creates tissue samples of appropriate size to fit into cassettes.


=== Embedding ===
Tissues are embedded in a harder medium both as a support and to allow the cutting of thin tissue slices. In general, water must first be removed from tissues (dehydration) and replaced with a medium that either solidifies directly, or with an intermediary fluid (clearing) that is miscible with the embedding media.


==== Paraffin wax ====

For light microscopy, paraffin wax is the most frequently used embedding material. Paraffin is immiscible with water, the main constituent of biological tissue, so it must first be removed in a series of dehydration steps. Samples are transferred through a series of progressively more concentrated ethanol baths, up to 100% ethanol to remove remaining traces of water. Dehydration is followed by a clearing agent (typically xylene although other environmental safe substitutes are in use) which removes the alcohol and is miscible with the wax, finally melted paraffin wax is added to replace the xylene and infiltrate the tissue. In most histology, or histopathology laboratories the dehydration, clearing, and wax infiltration are carried out in tissue processors which automate this process. Once infiltrated in paraffin, tissues are oriented in molds which are filled with wax; once positioned, the wax is cooled, solidifying the block and tissue.


==== Other materials ====
Paraffin wax does not always provide a sufficiently hard matrix for cutting very thin sections (which are especially important for electron microscopy). Paraffin wax may also be too soft in relation to the tissue, the heat of the melted wax may alter the tissue in undesirable ways, or the dehydrating or clearing chemicals may harm the tissue. Alternatives to paraffin wax include, epoxy, acrylic, agar, gelatin, celloidin, and other types of waxes.
In electron microscopy epoxy resins are the most commonly employed embedding media, but acrylic resins are also used, particularly where immunohistochemistry is required.
For tissues to be cut in a frozen state, tissues are placed in a water-based embedding medium. Pre-frozen tissues are placed into molds with the liquid embedding material, usually a water-based glycol, OCT, TBS, Cryogen, or resin, which is then frozen to form hardened blocks.


=== Sectioning ===

For light microscopy, a knife mounted in a microtome is used to cut tissue sections (typically between 5-15 micrometers thick) which are mounted on a glass microscope slide. For transmission electron microscopy (TEM), a diamond or glass knife mounted in an ultramicrotome is used to cut between 50 and 150 nanometer thick tissue sections.
A limited number of manufacturers are recognized for their production of microtomes, including vibrating microtomes commonly referred to as vibratomes, primarily for research and clinical studies. Additionally, Leica Biosystems is known for its production of products related to light microscopy in the context of research and clinical studies.


=== Staining ===

Biological tissue has little inherent contrast in either the light or electron microscope. Staining is employed to give both contrast to the tissue as well as highlighting particular features of interest. When the stain is used to target a specific chemical component of the tissue (and not the general structure), the term histochemistry is used.


==== Light microscopy ====

Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E stain) is one of the most commonly used stains in histology to show the general structure of the tissue. Hematoxylin stains cell nuclei blue; eosin, an acidic dye, stains the cytoplasm and other tissues in different stains of pink.
In contrast to H&E, which is used as a general stain, there are many techniques that more selectively stain cells, cellular components, and specific substances.  A commonly performed histochemical techn

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Megan Ambuhl (similarity: 0.1818)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megan_Ambuhl
  QID: Q6808624
  Extract: Megan Ambuhl is a former United States Army Reserve soldier who was convicted of dereliction of duty for her role in the prisoner abuse that occurred at Abu Ghraib prison, a notorious prison in Baghdad during the United States' occupation of Iraq.

  Title: American Society for Clinical Pathology (similarity: 0.2000)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Society_for_Clinical_Pathology
  QID: Q4745014
  Extract: The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), formerly known as the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, is a professional association based in Chicago, Illinois, encompassing 130,000 pathologists and laboratory professionals.

  Title: Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (similarity: 0.3288)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uniformed_Services_University_of_the_Health_Sciences
  QID: Q4114428
  Extract: The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) is a health science university and professional school of the U.S. federal government. The primary mission of the school is to prepare graduates for service to the U.S. at home and abroad as uniformed health professionals, scientists and

  Title: Medical laboratory (similarity: 0.2051)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_laboratory
  QID: Q2296168
  Extract: A medical laboratory or clinical laboratory is a laboratory where tests are conducted out on clinical specimens to obtain information about the health of a patient to aid in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. Clinical medical laboratories are an example of applied science, as opposed t

  Title: Medicine (similarity: 0.3448)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine
  QID: Q11190
  Extract: Medicine is the science and practice of caring for patients, managing the diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, treatment and palliation of their injury or disease, while promoting their health. Medicine encompasses a variety of health care practices which evolved to maintain and restore health through 

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong data foundation with detailed O*NET task descriptions, clear skill requirements, and well-defined related occupations. The role's technical nature and established career pathways provide solid basis for confident analysis.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T19:35:24.182208+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,413
tokens_output        : 4,150
cost_usd             : $0.043635
wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Histology
wikipedia_note       : The Wikipedia match confirms histology as the study of microscopic anatomy of biological tissues, directly aligning with the technician's role in tissue preparation for microscopic examination. The definition reinforces the connection between tissue processing and diagnostic pathology work.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Histology Technicians prepare tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists to aid in disease diagnosis. They use specialized equipment like microtomes to cut tissue sections, embed specimens in paraffin blocks, and apply chemical stains to make cellular details visible under microscopes. This highly technical role combines biological knowledge with manual dexterity to support critical diagnostic processes in healthcare.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
A histology technician begins by receiving tissue specimens from surgical procedures or biopsies, then uses microtomes to cut ultra-thin tissue sections for microscopic analysis. They embed tissue samples into paraffin wax blocks and infiltrate specimens to preserve cellular structure. The technician mounts prepared sections onto glass slides and applies various chemical stains and dyes to highlight specific cellular components. They operate computerized laboratory equipment to dehydrate, decalcify, or process tissue samples, while maintaining detailed documentation of all procedures. Throughout the day, they monitor equipment performance, archive diagnostic materials, and ensure quality control standards are met.

WHO THRIVES:
This role suits individuals with strong attention to detail and steady hands, as the work requires precise manipulation of delicate tissue specimens and operation of sensitive equipment. Those who excel typically have excellent near vision and finger dexterity, combined with strong critical thinking skills to troubleshoot technical issues. The work appeals to people who enjoy systematic, methodical processes and take pride in producing high-quality results that directly impact patient care. Successful histology technicians are dependable and cautious, understanding that their work forms the foundation for accurate medical diagnoses.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most histology technicians enter the field with an associate's degree (48% of workers) or post-secondary certificate (16%) focused on laboratory science or histotechnology. High school graduates (12%) can also enter through on-the-job training programs at hospitals or diagnostic laboratories. Essential coursework includes chemistry, biology, and laboratory techniques, with hands-on training in tissue processing and microscopy fundamentals.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Histology technicians can advance to histotechnologist positions with additional education and certification, gaining responsibility for more complex procedures and quality assurance oversight. Career progression may include specialization in areas like immunohistochemistry or molecular pathology, or advancement to laboratory supervision and management roles. Some technicians transition to related fields like cytotechnology or pursue further education to become pathologists' assistants.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, the median wage for this occupation reflects stable demand in the healthcare sector. Employment is concentrated in hospital laboratories, independent diagnostic laboratories, and pathology practices. The aging population drives consistent demand for diagnostic services, while technological advances in digital pathology and automated processing equipment are reshaping workflow efficiency. Geographic opportunities are strongest in metropolitan areas with major medical centers and specialized cancer treatment facilities.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
While automated equipment increasingly handles routine tissue processing tasks like dehydration and embedding, the precision required for specimen preparation and quality assessment maintains strong human involvement. Advanced staining equipment and digital imaging systems enhance efficiency but require skilled technicians for operation and troubleshooting, suggesting moderate automation impact with job evolution rather than replacement.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Histotechnologists (29-2011.04) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Direct advancement path sharing identical core knowledge in chemistry and biology with higher responsibility levels.
    data: Primary-Short relationship
    data: Chemistry knowledge 3.8 importance
    data: Biology knowledge 3.8 importance
  [skill_overlap] Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians (29-2012.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Shared critical thinking skills, monitoring abilities, and documentation requirements in laboratory settings.
    data: Primary-Short relationship
    data: Critical Thinking 3.5 importance
    data: Monitoring 3.2 importance
  [knowledge_overlap] Biological Technicians (19-4021.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles require strong biology and chemistry knowledge for specimen preparation and analysis work.
    data: Biology knowledge 3.8 importance
    data: Chemistry knowledge 4.3 level
    data: Primary-Long relationship
  [riasec_cluster] Cytotechnologists (29-2011.02) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Similar Realistic and Investigative orientation profiles for laboratory-based biological specimen work.
    data: R:6.29, I:5.37 RIASEC scores
    data: Primary-Short relationship
    data: Near Vision 4.0 importance
  [job_zone] Radiologic Technologists and Technicians (29-2034.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both require Job Zone 3 medium preparation with technical healthcare equipment operation skills.
    data: Job Zone 3 classification
    data: Equipment operation requirements
    data: Healthcare vertical

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['histology', 'histologic', 'tissue preparation', 'microtome', 'paraffin embedding', 'specimen processing', 'pathology support', 'laboratory technician']
  exclude_keywords : ['pathologist', 'surgeon', 'physician', 'nurse', 'radiologic']
  title_patterns   : ['Histology Technician', 'Histologic Technician', 'Histotechnician', 'HT', 'Histology Tech']
  common_variations: ['Certified Histologic Technician', 'Clinical Histology Technician', 'Histology Assistant', 'Histology Lab Technician', 'Mohs Technician', 'Histology Laboratory Aide', 'Histologic Aide', 'Histology Coordinator']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['tissue', 'tendency', 'others', 'equipment', 'tissues', 'histology', 'specimens', 'laboratory', 'techniques', 'includes', 'principles', 'microscopy', 'sections', 'microscopic', 'wax', 'body', 'paraffin', 'materials', 'control', 'biological']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tissue                     63  0.01674  wikipedia            wikipedia:71%  inference:17%  onet_tasks:11%
tendency                   42  0.01116  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     39  0.01036  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:97%  wikipedia:3%
equipment                  35  0.00930  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:66%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:9%
tissues                    30  0.00797  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_tasks:3%  onet_dimensions:3%
histology                  27  0.00717  wikipedia            wikipedia:78%  inference:22%
specimens                  18  0.00478  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:28%  dwas:28%  inference:28%
laboratory                 17  0.00452  dwas                 dwas:35%  wikipedia:29%  inference:24%
techniques                 17  0.00452  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:59%  wikipedia:35%  inference:6%
includes                   16  0.00425  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  wikipedia:19%  inference:6%
principles                 16  0.00425  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
microscopy                 16  0.00425  wikipedia            wikipedia:94%  inference:6%
sections                   15  0.00398  wikipedia            wikipedia:73%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:7%
microscopic                15  0.00398  wikipedia            wikipedia:67%  inference:27%  onet_tasks:7%
wax                        15  0.00398  wikipedia            wikipedia:80%  onet_tasks:13%  inference:7%
body                       13  0.00345  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:77%  wikipedia:15%  onet_tasks:8%
paraffin                   13  0.00345  wikipedia            wikipedia:77%  inference:15%  onet_tasks:8%
materials                  13  0.00345  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:77%  dwas:8%  wikipedia:8%
control                    13  0.00345  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  inference:8%
biological                 13  0.00345  wikipedia            wikipedia:46%  dwas:38%  inference:15%
under                      12  0.00319  wikipedia            wikipedia:58%  onet_dimensions:25%  onet_tasks:8%
procedures                 12  0.00319  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:25%  wikipedia:8%
objects                    12  0.00319  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
analysis                   11  0.00292  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:36%  dwas:36%  wikipedia:18%
ideas                      11  0.00292  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
medical                    11  0.00292  wikipedia            wikipedia:55%  dwas:18%  inference:18%
samples                    10  0.00266  wikipedia            wikipedia:60%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:10%
production                 10  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  wikipedia:20%
cells                      10  0.00266  wikipedia            wikipedia:90%  onet_dimensions:10%
processing                 10  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:40%  inference:40%  wikipedia:20%
quality                    10  0.00266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:60%  inference:40%
electron                   10  0.00266  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
problems                    9  0.00239  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needs                       9  0.00239  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  wikipedia:11%
structure                   9  0.00239  wikipedia            wikipedia:56%  onet_dimensions:33%  inference:11%
human                       9  0.00239  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  wikipedia:11%  inference:11%
resources                   9  0.00239  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
standards                   9  0.00239  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
health                      9  0.00239  wikipedia            wikipedia:89%  onet_dimensions:11%
structures                  9  0.00239  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:56%  wikipedia:44%