All About Cytogenetic Technologists

Job 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.

Daily Life Of a Cytogenetic Technologist

• Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
• Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
• Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
• Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
• Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
• Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.

Skills Needed to be a Cytogenetic Technologist

These are the skills Cytogenetic Technologists say are the most useful in their careers:

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.

Other Cytogenetic Technologist Job Titles

• Laboratory Technologist (Lab Technologist)
• Medical Laboratory Specialist (Medical Lab Specialist)
• Cardiovascular Laboratory Specialist
• Technical Specialist, Cytogenetics
• Laboratory Specialist (Lab Specialist)

Is There Job Demand for Cytogenetic Technologists?

In the United States, there were 171,400 jobs for Cytogenetic Technologist in 2016. 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. There will be an estimated 12,900 positions for Cytogenetic Technologist per year.

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?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Cytogenetic Technologists:

• Microsoft Excel
• Image analysis software

Becoming a Cytogenetic Technologist

What kind of Cytogenetic Technologist requirements are there?

What work experience do I need to become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• College Factual
• O*NET Online

Image Credit: Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla via U.S. Air Force photo

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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