Will “Head of Cytogenetics” be Replaced By Robots? 🤔

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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 “Head of Cytogenetics”

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

Related Technology & Tools

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

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