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

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

Related Technology & Tools

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

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