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).
Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.
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.
Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
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.
Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.
Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.
Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.
Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
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.
Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.

Related Technology & Tools

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

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