SOP Writing & Documentation

Standardize operations, reduce pre-analytical variability, and build a defensible quality system.

Implementation-ready Standard Operating Procedures for biotech and pharma laboratories where documentation gaps create operational risk and inspection exposure.

SOP Categories

Tissue Lifecycle

  • Fixation Lag-Time Protocols
  • Trimming and Block Preparation
  • Storage and Chain of Custody
  • Sample Accessioning Procedures

Assay Operations

  • IHC Staining Protocols
  • Antibody Validation Procedures
  • Sectioning and Mounting
  • Multiplex IF Workflows

Digital & Data

  • WSI Scanning Protocols
  • Metadata Management
  • Image Storage and Access
  • Case Linkage Procedures

Quality Management

  • QC Checkpoint Procedures
  • Audit Readiness Protocols
  • Batch Monitoring SOPs
  • Deviation Management

Closing the Gap Between Research and GLP-Standard Documentation

Our SOPs bridge the critical transition from research protocols to IND-enabling documentation. We structure documentation that meets GLP standards while remaining practical for operational teams, ensuring audit readiness without operational burden.

SOPs are more than documentation—they are risk mitigation.

  • Eliminate Batch Effects
  • Accelerate Tech Transfer
  • Inspection Readiness

Scope

SOP development covers IHC assay protocols, histology workflows, quality control procedures, digital pathology operations, equipment operation and maintenance, and regulatory documentation. We develop SOPs informed by FDA, CLIA, CAP, and ISO guidance, structured for operational consistency and inspection readiness.

What's included: SOP drafting, review cycles, formatting to your organizational standards, version control setup, and training framework. What's not included: Laboratory certification, regulatory approval, or ongoing operational management.

Our Tissue Management and Histology & IHC consulting services provide the strategic foundation that informs these SOPs.

What We Need

  • Current procedures or workflow descriptions (if available)
  • Regulatory context and inspection requirements
  • Instrumentation and platform details
  • Organizational standards and formatting requirements
  • Priority list of SOPs to develop
  • Timeline expectations

Our Process

1
Workflow Mapping
Observation/Interview

We observe your current processes and interview key personnel to understand existing workflows

2
Draft Creation
Bespoke documentation

We create custom SOPs tailored to your specific equipment, tissue types, and operational constraints

3
Technical Review
Expert pathology validation

Pathology experts validate technical accuracy and regulatory alignment of each SOP

4
Implementation Support
Training and QC checks

We provide training frameworks and QC checkpoints to ensure successful adoption

Common Failure Modes We Help Prevent

  • Regulatory delays from inadequate documentation — Missing or poorly structured SOPs that fail inspection review
  • Inconsistent execution across teams or sites — Lack of standardized procedures that create variability
  • Training gaps that compromise quality — Unclear procedures that lead to errors and rework
  • Change control failures — Unmanaged procedure updates that create compliance risk

Scope & Boundaries

This is an advisory and consulting service. PathologyEdge does not certify, accredit, or approve laboratories. We do not operate as a clinical laboratory or provide regulatory approval services.

SOPs are delivered as audit-ready drafts intended to support internal decision-making and operational consistency. Our documentation is informed by FDA, CLIA, CAP, and ISO guidance, structured to support inspection preparedness. Final approval and implementation remain your organization's responsibility.

Ready to Start?

Request a Consult or Project Estimate

Request a Consult

How We Work

1

Scoping & Material Review

We review your study goals, available tissues, existing protocols, and constraints. This initial assessment identifies gaps, risks, and optimization opportunities.

2

Workflow or Data Assessment

We evaluate your current workflows, sample handling, assay performance, or pathology data quality. This identifies failure modes and decision points.

3

Deliverables + Follow-up Guidance

We deliver concrete outputs—protocols, SOPs, review reports, or workflow frameworks—with implementation guidance and follow-up support as needed.

Engagement Pathways

Fixed-Scope Projects

Ideal for specific deliverables like SOP development, gap analyses, or protocol optimization.

Milestone-Based Advisory

We align our consulting with your drug development milestones (e.g., Pre-IND, Phase I readout).

Strategic Retainers

Long-term, on-call pathology judgment for teams requiring consistent oversight across multiple programs.

Consulting engagements are tailored to the complexity and regulatory stage of your program. Contact us for a bespoke proposal.