Healthcare Practitioners
Cytogenetic Technologists
Also called: Certified Cytogenetic Technologist, Clinical Cytogeneticist Scientist (CCS), Cytogenetics Clinical Laboratory Specialist (CG CLSp), Cytogenetics Specialist
US median pay
—
not published
Job growth 2025–35
—
Openings a year (US)
—
Typical entry education
—
Preparation 4/5 · Considerable preparation
What this job is
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.
What they do day to day
- 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 disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
- Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
- Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
- Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
- Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).
- Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
- Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
- Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Judgment and Decision Making3.4/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.2/5
- Time Management3.0/5
- Systems Analysis3.0/5
- Social Perceptiveness2.9/5
- Instructing2.9/5
- Coordination2.9/5
- Systems Evaluation2.8/5
Knowledge
- Biology4.0/5
- Chemistry3.0/5
- English Language2.8/5
- Education and Training2.7/5
- Computers and Electronics2.6/5
- Public Safety and Security2.5/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 4 of 5 — Considerable preparation. Usually a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience.
Who this job suits
Mostly Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.