Cytogenetic Technologists

Also called: Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS), Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics (CLSp(CG)), Cytogenetic Technician, Cytogenetic Technologist, Cytogenetics Technologist

Cytogenetic Technologists

Varies

estimated salary

Cytogenetic technologists 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.

  • Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
  • Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
  • Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
  • Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
  • Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
  • Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
  • Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
  • Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
  • Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.
  • Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
  • Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
  • Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
  • Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.
  • Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
  • Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).
  • Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
  • Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
  • Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.
  • Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
  • Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.
  • Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.
  • Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
  • Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
  • Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
  • Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
  • Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
  • Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
  • Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.
Work Context
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 100% responded "Every day".
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 89% responded "Extremely important".
  • Time Pressure — 74% responded "Every day".
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 77% responded "Every day".
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — 74% responded "Every day".
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 54% responded "Extremely important".
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 62% responded "Extremely important".
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Work Activities
  • 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.
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Detailed Work Activities
  • Prepare healthcare training materials.
  • Train medical providers.
  • Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
  • Prepare official health documents or records.
  • Prepare reports summarizing patient diagnostic or care activities.
  • Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
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Knowledge

Biology
  • Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
English Language
  • Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Chemistry
  • Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Skills

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.
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Abilities

Deductive Reasoning
  • The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning
  • The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Comprehension
  • The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Problem Sensitivity
  • The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
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Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
  • Achievement/Effort
  • Persistence
  • Initiative
  • Leadership
  • Cooperation
  • Concern for Others
  • Social Orientation
  • Self Control
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Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Spreadsheet software
  • Microsoft Excel Hot Technology
Analytical or scientific software
  • MetaSystems Isis Color Karyotyping
  • Lucia MFISH
  • Lucia Metaphase Finder
  • Lucia Karyo
  • Lucia FISH
  • Lucia Comet Assay
  • Lucia CGH
  • KARIO
  • Image capture software
  • Image analysis software
  • Geniel Genetics iGene
  • Genetix CytoVision
  • Digital karyotyping software
  • Cell Bioscience Automated Image Capture
Data base user interface and query software
  • Genial Genetics Shire
  • Genial Genetics iPassport QMS