Cytogenetic Technologists

Course Advisor; United States; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Course Advisor is seeking a Cytogenetic Technologist to analyze chromosomes in biological specimens to aid in diagnosing genetic diseases. The role involves harvesting cell cultures, preparing specimens for examinations, and using tools like Microsoft Excel and image analysis software. Candidates should possess key skills in reading comprehension, critical thinking, and effective communication. This is a critical role that contributes to patient diagnostics and treatment options.

Responsibilities

• Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens.
• Harvest cell cultures using various substances.
• Count chromosome numbers and identify abnormalities.
• Prepare biological specimens for examinations.
• Communicate unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation.
• Apply specimens for analysis and produce results.

Skills

Reading Comprehension

Active Listening

Critical Thinking

Writing

Speaking

Judgment and Decision Making

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Image analysis software

Job description

Cytogenetic Technologist

All About Cytogenetic Technologists

Career Description 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.

A Day in the Life of a Cytogenetic Technologist

• Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
• Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
• 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.
• Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
• Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.

Things a Cytogenetic Technologist Should Know How to Do

• 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.

Tools & Technologies Used by Cytogenetic Technologists

• Microsoft Excel
• Image analysis software