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Cytogenetic Technologists - 29-2011.01

O*NET-SOC 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.

Sample of Reported Job Titles

  • Certified Cytogenetic Technologist
  • Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS)
  • Cytogenetic Technologist
  • Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Specialist (CG CLSp)
  • Cytogenetics Technical Specialist
  • Cytogenetics Technologist
  • Molecular Genetics Technologist

SOC Occupation Groups

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
  • Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
  • Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
  • Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
  • Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.
  • Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
  • Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
  • Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
  • Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.
  • Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
  • Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.
  • Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
  • Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
  • Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.
  • Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
  • Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
  • Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).
  • Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
  • Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
  • Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
  • Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
  • Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
  • Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
  • Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
  • Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
  • Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.
  • Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
  • Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.
  • Collect biological specimens from patients.
  • Communicate detailed medical information to patients or family members.
  • Communicate test or assessment results to medical professionals.
  • Create advanced digital images of patients using computer imaging systems.
  • Determine protocols for medical procedures.
  • Develop healthcare quality and safety procedures.
  • Enter patient or treatment data into computers.
  • Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
  • Maintain medical facility records.
  • Maintain medical laboratory equipment.
  • Monitor medical facility activities to ensure adherence to standards or regulations.
  • Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.
  • Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
  • Prepare healthcare training materials.
  • Prepare official health documents or records.
  • Prepare reports summarizing patient diagnostic or care activities.
  • Supervise technical medical personnel.
  • Test biological specimens to gather information about patient conditions.
  • Train medical providers.

Military Crosswalk Titles

  • Medical Laboratory Scientist (Navy - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Medical Laboratory Technician (Navy - Enlisted)
  • Pathologist (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist (Army - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist (Navy - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Cytology (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Dermatology (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Forensic (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Gynecology (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Hematology (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Neuropathology (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Pediatric (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Pediatrics (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)
  • Pathologist, Transfusion Medicine (Air Force - Commissioned Officer only)

Apprenticeship Crosswalk Titles

No information available.

DOT Crosswalk Titles

  • Cytogenetic Technologist