Cytogenetic Technologists: Job Description
Analyze chromosomes or chromosome segments found in biological specimens, such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, solid tumors, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, classification, or treatment of inherited or acquired genetic diseases. Conduct analyses through classical cytogenetic, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) techniques.
Featured schools near , edit
The Daily Work of Cytogenetic Technologists Do?
The day-to-day responsibilities of cytogenetic technologists include:
- Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
- Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
- Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
- Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
- Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
- Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
Skills and Knowledge
Effective cytogenetic technologists rely on a mix of skills and domain knowledge.
Key Skills
These are the skills most central to this role, rated on an importance scale of 0 to 5:
Core Knowledge
Types of Cytogenetic Technologists Jobs
This career also goes by job titles like:
- Certified Cytogenetic Technologist
- Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS)
- Cytogenetic Technician
- Cytogenetic Technologist
- Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Specialist (CG CLSp)
- Cytogenetics Technical Specialist
- Cytogenetics Technologist
- Cytologist
How Many Cytogenetic Technologists Are There?
There are about 2,061,475 cytogenetic technologists working in the United States today. Demand is forecast to grow by +1.9% over the projection horizon.
Salary for Cytogenetic Technologists
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual median | $155,361 |
| Hourly median | $74.69 |
| 10th percentile | $109,477 |
| 25th percentile | $132,419 |
| 75th percentile | $178,303 |
| 90th percentile | $201,245 |
Compensation varies based on experience, location, and industry.
Tech Stack
- Graphics or photo imaging software: Adobe Illustrator (hot technology)
- Object or component oriented development software: C++ (hot technology)
- Spreadsheet software: Microsoft Excel (hot technology)
- Office suite software: Microsoft Office software (hot technology)
- Electronic mail software: Microsoft Outlook (hot technology)
- Presentation software: Microsoft PowerPoint (hot technology)
- Word processing software: Microsoft Word (hot technology)
- Object or component oriented development software: Python (hot technology)
Work Environment
Daily working conditions for cytogenetic technologists is shaped by the following characteristics:
- Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Time Pressure
- Frequency of Decision Making
Education and Training
Entry-level cytogenetic technologists positions require a bachelor’s degree as the typical entry-level education. The role falls in Considerable Preparation Needed (Job Zone 4), signaling the level of preparation typically expected.
Similar Occupations
Similar Occupations
- Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers (Primary-Long)
- Biochemists and Biophysicists (Supplemental)
- Microbiologists (Primary-Long)
- Bioinformatics Scientists (Supplemental)
- Molecular and Cellular Biologists (Primary-Long)
- Geneticists (Supplemental)
- Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (Supplemental)
- Biological Technicians (Primary-Long)
Degree Programs
Aspiring cytogenetic technologists often complete programs in:
Health Professions and Related Programs
5 programs across 1 majors
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
1 programs across 1 majors
References
Statistics shown above are sourced from the following authoritative sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for employment and wage data by state and industry.
- BLS Employment Projections for total employment and growth forecasts.
- O*NET (Occupational Information Network) for skills, knowledge, tasks, work activities, work context, technology, and education-zone data.
SOC code: 29-2011.01 (Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists).
GradDegree.com provides higher-education, college and university, degree, program, career, salary, and other helpful information to students, faculty, institutions, and other internet audiences. Presented information and data are subject to change. Inclusion on this website does not imply or represent a direct relationship with the company, school, or brand. Information, though believed correct at time of publication, may not be correct, and no warranty is provided. Contact the schools to verify any information before relying on it. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. The displayed options may include sponsored or recommended results, not necessarily based on your preferences.
© GradDegree.com – All Rights Reserved.