Cytogenetic Technologists

What the job really is

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.

At a glance

• Sector: Healthcare Practitioners
• O*NET-SOC code: 29-2011
• O*NET job zone: 4 — considerable preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
• Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
• Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
• Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
• Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
• Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
• Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
• Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
• Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
• 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).
• Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.

Tools and technology

Adobe Illustrator, C++, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Python, 1 ml pipettes, 10 ml pipettes, 2 ml cryovials, 25 ml pipettes

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
• Histotechnologists
• Cytotechnologists
• Histology Technicians
• Nuclear Medicine Technologists
• Microbiologists
• Molecular and Cellular Biologists

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 4 (considerable preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Cytogenetic Technologists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.