Cytogenetic Technologists
Also called: Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics (CLSp(CG)), Cytogenetic Technologist, Senior Cytogenetic Technologist,
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, you would:
- Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
- Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
Math and Science
Arts and Humanities
|
Basic Skills
Problem Solving
People and Technology Systems
|
Verbal
Ideas and Logic
Hand and Finger Use
Visual Understanding
|
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
|
You might use software like this on the job: Spreadsheet software
Analytical or scientific software
Data base user interface and query software
|
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![]() New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
![]() $53,120
![]() $30,920
$81,530
|
|
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, you would:
- Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
- Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
KNOWLEDGE
Math and Science
- biology
- chemistry
Arts and Humanities
- English language
SKILLS
Basic Skills
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- reading work related information
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
- thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
ABILITIES
Verbal
- listen and understand what people say
- communicate by speaking
Ideas and Logic
- make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
- use rules to solve problems
Hand and Finger Use
- put together small parts with your fingers
- keep your arm or hand steady
Visual Understanding
- see hidden patterns
PERSONALITY
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Attention to Detail
- Dependability
- Integrity
- Stress Tolerance
- Cooperation
- Self Control
TECHNOLOGY
You might use software like this on the job:
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Analytical or scientific software
- Cell Bioscience Automated Image Capture
- MetaSystems Isis Color Karyotyping
Data base user interface and query software
- Genial Genetics iPassport QMS
- Genial Genetics Shire
EDUCATION

- bachelor's degree
- certificate after college
JOB OUTLOOK

New job opportunities are very likely in the future.

$53,120

$30,920
$81,530