Will “Cytogenetic Technologists” 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

Also Known As…

Tasks for “Cytogenetic Technologists”

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

Related Technology & Tools

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

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