Will “Laboratory Specialist (Lab Specialist)” 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 “Laboratory Specialist (Lab Specialist)”

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

Related Technology & Tools

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

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