Cytogenetic Technologists :: Job Description

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Cytogenetic Technologists

Careers / Cytogenetic Technologists

Summary Description


	Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, or treatment of genetic diseases.

Sample Job Titles

1.	Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS)

2.	Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics (CLSp(CG))

3.	Cytogenetic Technician

4.	Cytogenetic Technologist

5.	Cytogenetics Laboratory Manager (Cytogenetics Lab Manager)

6.	Cytologist

7.	Genetic Technologist

8.	Head of Cytogenetics

9.	Laboratory Specialist (Lab Specialist)

10.	Laboratory Technologist (Lab Technologist)

11.	Lead Cytogenetic Technologist

12.	Lead Technologist in Cytogenetics

13.	Medical Laboratory Specialist (Medical Lab Specialist)

14.	Research Laboratory Specialist (Research Lab Specialist)

15.	Senior Cytogenetic Technologist

16.	Senior Cytogenetics Laboratory Director

17.	Technical Specialist, Cytogenetics

Job Tasks

	Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

	Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders. Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.

	Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes. Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.

	Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities. Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.

	Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems. Create advanced digital images of patients using computer imaging systems.

	Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral. Determine protocols for medical procedures.

	Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives. Collect biological specimens from patients.

	Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities. Prepare official health documents or records. Prepare reports summarizing patient diagnostic or care activities.

	Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in Internations System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language. Communicate test or assessment results to medical professionals.

	Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

	Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells. Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems. Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.

	Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

	Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

	Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

	Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS). Enter patient or treatment data into computers.

	Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results. Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.

	Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs. Determine protocols for medical procedures.

	Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy. Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.

	Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems. Enter patient or treatment data into computers.

	Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers. Communicate detailed medical information to patients or family members. Communicate test or assessment results to medical professionals.

	Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth. Determine protocols for medical procedures.

	Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports. Monitor medical facility activities to ensure adherence to standards or regulations. Develop healthcare quality and safety procedures.

	Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests. Determine protocols for medical procedures.

	Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests. Test biological specimens to gather information about patient conditions.

	Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions. Communicate test or assessment results to medical professionals.

	Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport. Determine protocols for medical procedures.

	Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws. Maintain medical facility records.

	Supervise subordinate laboratory staff. Supervise technical medical personnel.

	Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment. Maintain medical laboratory equipment.

	Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows. Prepare healthcare training materials. Train medical providers.

Work Activities

Importance	Work Activity

Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.

Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

Nature of the Work


	(Abstract from Career Articles)

	Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
	Medical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laboratory scientists) and medical laboratory technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

	Read More >>

Working Conditions


	(Abstract from Career Articles)

	Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
	About half of all medical laboratory technologists and technicians were employed in hospitals in 2014. Others worked in doctors' offices or diagnostic laboratories.

	Read More >>

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Interesting Fact

Charles Goodyear, the man who developed vulcanized rubber, began his experiments while he was in prison.

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