I must say, that i strongly  agree with Ian.  In addition,  I have met many
a "technician" that are more qualified and have a better understanding of
research principles than MDs or PhD (no offense). I have observed in my
experience that many "professionals" do not even understand the basic
principles of histology and histological technique. I have also met and had
the pleaseure of working with many physicians (MD) and scientists (PhD) who
do understand and take the time to learn the techniques and the principles
behind them.  Are histotechs professionals? My opinion, anyone who tries to
learn, understand and perform their job to the best of their abilities is a
professional, including all lab techs.

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Luis Chiriboga Ph.D HT (ASCP) QIHC
New York University School of Medicine
Kaplan Comprehensive Cancer Center
Department of Pathology, Bellevue Hospital
4W27, 27 Street & First Avenue
New York, New York 10016