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Cytogenetic Technologist

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What Do Cytogenetic Technologist Do?

Job Description & Duties 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.

List of Cytogenetic Technologist Job Duties

  • Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
  • Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
  • Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in Internations System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.
  • Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
  • Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
  • Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.

Cytogenetic Technologist Needed Skills

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.

Types of Cytogenetic Technologist

  • Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS)
  • Medical Laboratory Specialist (Medical Lab Specialist)
  • Genetic Technologist
  • Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics (CLSp(CG))
  • Research Laboratory Specialist (Research Lab Specialist)

Job Opportunities 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. There will be an estimated 12,900 positions for Cytogenetic Technologist per year.

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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 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

What education or degrees do I need to become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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References:

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

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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