Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Histology Technician Roles – 2025

If you're planning to apply for a role as a histology technician, it's important to be prepared for your upcoming interview. This list of 20 up-to-date interview questions and answers will help you showcase your skills and experience in the field of histology. Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced technician looking for a new opportunity, these questions cover a variety of areas to help you stand out during your interview.

General Questions

1. Tell me about your experience in the field of histology.
I have been working as a histology technician for over 5 years. During this time, I have gained experience in tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and slide preparation. I have worked with a variety of samples, including human tissues, animal tissues, and plant tissues.
2. Why did you choose to become a histology technician?
I have always been interested in science and medicine, and I discovered my passion for histology during my undergraduate studies. I was fascinated by the process of preparing and examining tissue samples and decided to pursue a career in this field.
3. What do you know about our laboratory/organization?
I have researched your laboratory/organization and I am impressed by the cutting-edge technology and techniques you use for histology testing. I am also aware of your commitment to providing timely and accurate results to aid in patient diagnoses.
4. How do you handle challenging or difficult tasks?
When faced with a challenging task, I first analyze the problem and assess my options. I then seek guidance from my supervisor or colleagues if needed. I am a problem-solver and remain calm under pressure to ensure the best possible outcome.
5. How do you stay updated with the latest developments in the field of histology?
I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and webinars related to histology. I also read scientific journals and publications to stay updated on new techniques and technologies. Additionally, I am a member of a histology organization that offers continuing education opportunities.

Technical Skills & Experience

6. What staining techniques are you familiar with?
I am familiar with both routine and special staining techniques, including H&E staining, PAS staining, and immunohistochemical staining.
7. How do you ensure quality control in your work?
I adhere to standard operating procedures and pay close attention to detail in my work. I also regularly perform quality control tests and make sure to maintain accurate records.
8. Can you walk me through the tissue processing procedure?
The tissue processing procedure involves the steps of fixation, dehydration, clearing, and infiltration with paraffin wax. The tissue sample is then embedded in wax blocks, sectioned, and stained for examination under a microscope.
9. How do you troubleshoot when a staining result is not as expected?
If a staining result is not as expected, I first check if the sample was properly processed and embedded. If everything seems to be in order, I review the staining protocol and make sure all the steps were followed correctly. If the issue persists, I consult with my colleagues or supervisor for further troubleshooting.
10. How do you handle and store hazardous chemicals?
I follow all safety protocols and properly label and store hazardous chemicals in a designated area. I wear appropriate personal protective equipment and dispose of chemicals as instructed by the laboratory's safety procedures.

Behavioral Questions

11. Can you tell me about a time when you had to work under a tight deadline?
In my previous position, we had an unexpected influx of tissue samples that needed to be processed and analyzed within a short period of time. I prioritized my tasks, communicated effectively with my team, and worked overtime to ensure all samples were processed and results were delivered on time.
12. How do you handle conflicts with colleagues?
I believe effective communication is the key to resolving conflicts. I approach the individual and try to understand their point of view. I remain professional and offer to find a solution that works for both parties.
13. Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an equipment malfunction.
In my previous role, the microtome machine malfunctioned, and we were falling behind on processing samples. I quickly assessed the issue and determined that a part needed to be replaced. I contacted the manufacturer and was able to get the part delivered and installed within the day, minimizing delays in our work.
14. How do you ensure confidentiality when handling patient samples?
I understand the importance of patient confidentiality and strictly adhere to privacy regulations. I only discuss patient information with authorized individuals and securely store any hard copy or digital records.

Situational Questions

15. What would you do if a tissue sample was accidentally damaged during processing?
If a tissue sample was accidentally damaged, I would immediately inform my supervisor and document the incident. I would then try to salvage the sample and inform the relevant parties if a new sample needed to be obtained.
16. How would you handle a coworker who consistently makes mistakes in their work?
I would approach the individual and offer to provide guidance and support. If the issue persists, I would bring it to the attention of our supervisor and offer suggestions for improving the coworker's performance.
17. What would you do if you discovered discrepancies in a patient's results?
If I discovered discrepancies in a patient's results, I would first double-check the samples and make sure they were processed correctly. I would then report my findings to my supervisor and follow their instructions for resolving the issue and ensuring accurate results.
18. How would you prioritize your tasks when you have multiple urgent samples to process?
I would prioritize my tasks based on the severity and urgency of the samples. I would also assess the potential impact of delays in processing each sample and make sure to communicate with my team to ensure a balanced workload and timely results.

Cultural Fit Questions

19. What do you value in a workplace?
I value a workplace that fosters teamwork, open communication, and growth opportunities. I also appreciate a workplace that values integrity, accuracy, and goes above and beyond to provide quality services.
20. How do you handle feedback and criticism?
I am open to feedback and criticism and see it as an opportunity to grow and improve in my role. I am receptive to constructive criticism and take proactive steps to address any areas of improvement suggested by my colleagues or supervisor.