What is a Cytogenetic Technologist?
Position 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.
What Do Cytogenetic Technologists Do On a Daily Basis?
- Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
- Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
- Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
- Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
- Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
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What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Cytogenetic Technologist?
When polled, Cytogenetic Technologists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Technical Specialist, Cytogenetics
- Senior Cytogenetic Technologist
- Genetic Technologist
- Head of Cytogenetics
- Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics (CLSp(CG))
Job Demand for Cytogenetic Technologists
There were about 171,400 jobs for Cytogenetic Technologist in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.6% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 19,800 new jobs for Cytogenetic Technologist by 2026. The BLS estimates 12,900 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Cytogenetic Technologist are Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Watch out if you plan on working in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Illinois. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
What Tools & Technology do Cytogenetic Technologists Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Cytogenetic Technologists may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Image analysis software
Becoming a Cytogenetic Technologist
Education needed to be a Cytogenetic Technologist:
How many years of work experience do I need?
References:
Image Credit: Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla via U.S. Air Force photo
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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