Will “Cytogenetic Technician” be Replaced By Robots? 🤔

Unknown Chance of Automation

Sadly, the research paper did not provide any information about this occupation. Maybe have a look at our directory?

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.

Job Details

The SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code is 29-2011.01

☝️ Information based on the reference occupation “Cytogenetic Technologists”.

Also Known As…

Tasks for “Cytogenetic Technician”

Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).
Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.
Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.
Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in Internations System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.
Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.
Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.
Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital birth defects, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.

Related Technology & Tools

Slide cassettes
Reference thermometers
Hot air sterilizers
Safety gloves
Microscope camera adapters
Tachometers
Automated imaging systems
Counting chambers
Microscope slides
Laboratory freezers
2 ml cryovials
Binocular compound microscopes
Microscope filters
25 ml pipettes
Water baths
Cell harvesters
Glass flasks
Media filtration systems
Metaphase finding system software
Bench-top autoclaves
Floor model drying chambers
Slide sorters
Computerized karotype equipment
Microarray scanners
Biological safety cabinets
Fluorescent in situ hybridization FISH automation instruments
10 ml pipettes
Interferometers
Desktop computers
Mercury vapor lamps
Fluorescent microscopes
Vortex mixers
1 ml pipettes
Laboratory refrigerators
Heated magnetic stirrers
Water deionizers
Cell culture tubes
Incubators
Masks
Steam autoclaves
Phase contrast microscopes
pH meters
Automatic slide loading systems
Digital image printers
Denaturation/hybridization systems
Biological containment hoods
35m petri dishes
Hybridization ovens
Test tube racks
Benchtop drying chambers
Flat bottom microtiter plates
Stereo microscopes
Glass water distillers
Low speed refrigerated centrifuges
Pipette aids
Inverted compound microscopes
Liquid nitrogen containers
4 ml cryovials
Photomicroscopes
Uncooled charge-coupled device cameras
Digital cameras
Ultrasonic sterilization units
Laboratory microwave ovens
Robotic harvesters

Genial Genetics Shire
Lucia Karyo
Lucia MFISH
Image analysis software
MetaSystems Isis Color Karyotyping
Microsoft Excel
Genetix CytoVision
Image capture software
Geniel Genetics iGene
Genial Genetics iPassport QMS
KARIO
Lucia FISH
Lucia CGH
Digital karyotyping software
Lucia Metaphase Finder
Lucia Comet Assay
Cell Bioscience Automated Image Capture