Meet Crystal Johnson, StageBio's Senior Veterinary Pathologist! Crystal brings over five years of dedicated expertise in veterinary pathology, with a particular passion for ocular studies, to help drug developers navigate complex preclinical assessments with precision, confidence, and a deeply collaborative spirit.

In this Employee Spotlight, we sit down with Crystal Johnson, Senior Veterinary Pathologist at StageBio, to learn about her role and what drives her passion for the field. With nearly five years at StageBio following a tenure at a large CRO, Crystal brings a well-rounded depth of experience to every study she takes on. At StageBio, she has found the space to grow as a pathologist on her own terms, building specialized expertise in ocular pathology while confidently tackling a wide variety of preclinical studies. Her work is shaped by a culture that values autonomy, collaboration, and scientific curiosity, helping clients move forward with a pathologist who is both highly skilled and genuinely invested in the work.

1. How long have you worked with StageBio?

I have been with StageBio for approximately five years. After working with a large CRO for a number of years, I felt that I needed to expand my experience and I wanted to make more of a connection at a smaller company. StageBio just felt more fitting for me.

2. What are your primary interests within the Pathology space?

I love evaluating eyes, and luckily, I receive a lot of ocular work here at StageBio. We receive such a large variety of studies, and I like that I have some control over what studies I’m asked to read. StageBio values what I am comfortable with and what types of projects I enjoy doing. Having the time for scientific exploration and the choice in which studies I want to pursue has helped me build my comfort level in specialty areas, such as ocular studies, but also try new things I have not done before. 

3. What are your most recent work accomplishments?

My accomplishments with StageBio have been personal and not governed by the company’s objectives and that is a true gift. I have really grown as a pathologist during my time here, and I feel confident taking on any type of study that comes my way. This type of career building can only come from ‘doing’ and StageBio has given me those opportunities over and over again. My job is never boring!

4. What do you like about the StageBio culture?

The two main things I like most about StageBio are the culture and the connection to my coworkers. Even though most pathologists work remotely, it does not feel that way! The pathology group is closely connected here, and we maintain a group chat for communication that gets used almost every day. I am never hesitant to ask or share anything with my coworkers; I feel I can count on them for anything. The culture at StageBio is about autonomy, with plenty of focus time for studies but available when you need something.

5. What do you like to do on the weekends?

You will likely find me crafting something involving my laser cutter. I belong to a miniature club, and I design and cut small projects for our club, and also teach classes to others on how to build miniature scenes and buildings. I have approximately 60 miniature buildings/houses in my home. I like being able to create a design, cut the pieces out, and put it together the same day!

Crystal's path, from large CRO experience to finding her footing at a smaller, more connected organization, reflects a pathologist who has been intentional about how and where she grows. Her deep comfort with ocular studies, paired with the confidence to take on any study that comes her way, makes her a valuable partner for drug developers navigating complex or specialized preclinical work. That growth has been shaped by a culture at StageBio that gives pathologists like Crystal the autonomy and opportunity to do their best work. If your next program includes ocular endpoints or specialty pathology needs, Crystal and the StageBio team are well-positioned to support you from study start to final report.
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