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Cytogenetic Technologist

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What You Need to Know About Cytogenetic Technologist

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.

Life As a Cytogenetic Technologist: What Do They Do?

  • Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
  • Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
  • 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.
  • Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
  • Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.

What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Cytogenetic Technologist?

Below is a list of the skills most Cytogenetic Technologists say are important on the job.

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 Jobs

  • Cytogenetic Technologist
  • Senior Cytogenetics Laboratory Director
  • Lead Technologist in Cytogenetics
  • Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS)
  • Technical Specialist, Cytogenetics

Are There Job Opportunities 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.

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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.

Tools & Technologies Used by Cytogenetic Technologists

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

How do I Become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

What kind of Cytogenetic Technologist requirements are there?

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

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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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