Career:
Cytogenetic Technologist
Job 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.
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What Cytogenetic Technologists do:
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
- 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.
- Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
- Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
- Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.
- Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
- Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
- Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
- Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
- Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.
- Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
- Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
- Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
- Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
- Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
- Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.
- Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
- Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
What work activities does a Cytogenetic Technologist do?
| Importance | Activities | |
|---|---|---|
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates - Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. |
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Documenting/Recording Information - Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form. |
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge - Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. |
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Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. |
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events - Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. |
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards - Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. |
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Interacting With Computers - Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. |
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Processing Information - Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. |
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Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings - Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. |
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Analyzing Data or Information - Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. |
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material - Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. |
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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work - Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. |
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. |
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Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People - Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. |
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Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships - Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. |
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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others - Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. |
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Training and Teaching Others - Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others. |
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Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others - Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. |
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Handling and Moving Objects - Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things. |
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Controlling Machines and Processes - Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles). |
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Coaching and Developing Others - Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills. |
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Developing and Building Teams - Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members. |
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Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates - Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. |
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Scheduling Work and Activities - Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. |
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Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information - Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity. |
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Performing Administrative Activities - Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork. |
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Assisting and Caring for Others - Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients. |
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Thinking Creatively - Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. |
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