Medical Laboratory Technologist, Genetics

Sinai Health; Toronto; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Ontario is seeking a Medical Laboratory Technologist specializing in genetics. The role focuses on performing advanced genetic testing and contributing to innovative diagnostic approaches in a collaborative lab environment. Candidates should be certified by CSMLS and possess strong problem-solving and organizational skills. This position offers the chance to work with cutting-edge technologies in a field dedicated to making a significant impact on patient lives.

Qualifications

• Canadian certification as a Medical Laboratory Technologist in Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics is mandatory.
• Experience in Medical Genetics is preferred.
• Strong problem-solving, organization, and time management skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular and cytogenetics procedures for diagnosis and management.
• Rotate through different laboratory testing benches to learn all procedures.
• Identify and report cytogenetic findings accurately.
• Ensure the accuracy and completeness of results.

Skills

Problem recognition

Organization

Time management

Prioritization

Education

CSMLS certified MLT in Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics Technology

Membership of the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario

Tools

Next Generation Sequencing

Sanger Sequencing

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Job description

Are you a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) eager to make a real difference in the lives of patients? Are you fascinated by the world of genetics and genomics, and their impact on patient care? The Diagnostic Medical Genetics laboratory at Mount Sinai Hospital offers a unique opportunity to join a world-class team at the forefront of genetic diagnostics. Here, you will utilize cutting‑edge technologies, collaborate with experts across various disciplines, and play a vital role in providing results used for the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of genetic conditions.

Is this you?

You are a highly motivated and detail‑oriented Genetics MLT with a keen interest in the ever‑evolving field of genetics. You thrive in a collaborative environment where scientific discussions are encouraged, and you are eager to learn from experts in genetics. The diverse range of tests and technologies employed in this lab ensures there’s always something new to learn and opportunities to expand your skillset.

You’re eager to delve into advanced areas of genetic testing; this lab does a lot of work focused on constitutional and cancer genetics. You’re energized by the challenge of troubleshooting complex cases, developing and validating new testing methods, and staying ahead of the curve in genetic technology. You find it deeply rewarding to help patients and their families through your interpretation of results and data, recognizing that the work you do saves thousands of lives every year.

You embrace innovation. The opportunity to work with the most advanced sequencing instruments (e.g. NovaSeq X Plus) and analysis software (e.g. DRAGEN NGS pipeline) appeals to you. This lab is pioneering ground‑breaking techniques like low‑pass whole genome sequencing for prenatal CNV detection. It’s an exhilarating time to be working in genetics, and you’re eager to contribute your expertise to a team dedicated to continuous learning and professional growth.

About the Diagnostic Medical Genetics team

The Diagnostic Medical Genetics Laboratory at Mount Sinai Hospital is a hub for cutting‑edge diagnostic testing and innovative method and test development. We are dedicated to improving patient care through a deeper understanding of genetics. Equipped with advanced technologies, the lab offers a wide range of genetic and genomic testing, supporting diverse clinical needs across various specialties. A collaborative spirit thrives within the lab, bringing together a team of skilled professionals, including geneticists, genetic counselors, variant analysts, bioinformaticians, medical laboratory technologists and technicians. This team is united by a shared passion for unraveling the complexities of genetic disorders, pioneering new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and ultimately, making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families.

In this role you will:

• Perform Molecular and Cytogenetics procedures as outlined in the laboratory standard operating procedures to aid in diagnosis and management of patients.
• Rotate through the laboratory testing benches, becoming thoroughly familiar with theory and performance of all procedures and techniques relating to each bench area
• Identify and accurately report cytogenetic findings using the International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature
• Ensure the accuracy, legibility and completeness of results submitted for reporting where applicable
• Perform all quality control procedures and basic troubleshooting whenever results are beyond expected or allowable limits according to established protocol
• Accession and process specimens in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Prioritize work and respond to urgent or unpredicted demand for specimen processing or testing
• Prepare reagents, buffers, calibrators, quality control and other materials as required. Assist in inventory control of reagents and supplies
• Perform test/procedures related to method evaluation, test optimization and validation
• Observe and follow the processes, policies and procedures of the quality management system of corresponding discipline(s)
• Assist in orientating and demonstrating procedures or technology to new staff or students as requested
• Perform the following techniques as applicable to the testing being performed and interpret results with an understanding of the disease being analyzed:
  • Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Sanger Sequencing, including library preparation and analyses
  • DNA extraction from fresh or frozen blood, fresh, frozen or paraffin‑embedded tissue
  • RNA extraction from fresh or frozen blood, fresh or frozen tissue
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
  • Quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF‑PCR) techniques and analysis
  • Gel electrophoresis and analysis
  • Microsatellite Instability Testing (MSI) techniques and analysis
  • Multiplex Ligation‑dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) techniques and analysis
  • Microarray techniques and analysis
  • Special stains, FISH and other procedures as required:
    • Microscopic (bright field & fluorescent) analysis of chromosome preparations
  • G‑Banding, digital imaging and computer automated karyotyping of chromosome preparations

Job Requirements

Mandatory

• Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) certified MLT in Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics Technology (Dual License)
• Member of the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO)
• Candidates eligible to write the upcoming Clinical Genetics CSMLS exam will be considered

Preferred

• Experience in Medical Genetics

Skills and Knowledge

• Demonstrated problem recognition and problem solving skills
• Demonstrated organizational, time management and prioritization skills
• Demonstrated satisfactory work performance and attendance record

Note: In accordance with accreditation standards, employment is conditional upon applicant demonstrating proof of visual colour discrimination ability pertinent to the essential duties of the job.

If this sounds like you and you feel ready to build your career within pathology and laboratory medicine, apply now and let us know why you’d be a great addition to our team. You can also submit your application and related materials to [e-mail]. Please include "Medical Laboratory Technologist, Genetics" in the subject line of your email.