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Cytogenetic Technologist

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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.

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Things a Cytogenetic Technologist Should Know How to Do

When polled, Cytogenetic Technologists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

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

  • Cytogenetics Technologist
  • Medical Laboratory Specialist (Medical Lab Specialist)
  • Head of Cytogenetics
  • Cytologist
  • Technical Specialist, Cytogenetics

Job Outlook 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. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 12,900 job openings in this field each 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

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Cytogenetic Technologists:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Image analysis software

How do I Become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

What education or degrees do I need to become a Cytogenetic Technologist?

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What work experience do I need 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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