Cytogenetic Technologists

Also called : Certified Cytogenetic Technologist, Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS), Cytogenetic Technologist, Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Specialist (CG CLSp), Cytogenetics Technical Specialist, Cytoge

What they do

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.

On the job, one would

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.

KNOWLEDGE

Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

SKILLS

Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

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.

Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.

ABILITIES

Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).

Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

PERSONALITY

People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;

Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.

Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.

Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.

Achievement/Effort
Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.

Related Occupations

Forensic Science Technicians

Agricultural Technicians

Biological Technicians

Chemical Technicians

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists

Food Science Technicians

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians

TECHNOLOGY

Analytical or scientific software

Customer relationship management CRM software

Data base user interface and query software

Graphics or photo imaging software

Object or component oriented development software

Office suite software

Presentation software

Spreadsheet software

Word processing software

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Preparation
Considerable Preparation Needed
Education
Four-year bachelor degree
Experience
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupation
Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.