Cytogenetic Technologists
Analyze chromosomes or chromosome segments found in biological specimens, such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, solid tumors, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, classification, or treatment of inherited or acquired genetic diseases. Conduct analyses through classical cytogenetic, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) techniques.
- Tasks
- 30 tasks28 core, 2 supplemental
- Family
- Healthcare PractitionersOne of its 96 occupations
- Code
- 29-2011.01SOC 2018: 29-2011
What the work is made of
28 core tasks and 2 supplemental, each quoted as published, with the survey it came from.
Core: central to the jobSupplemental: done by some, not all
- Task 1. Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.Core taskTask 17390Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 2. Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.Core taskTask 17389Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 3. Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.Core taskTask 17385Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 4. Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.Core taskTask 20569Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 5. Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.Core taskTask 20565Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 6. Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.Core taskTask 17391Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 7. Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.Core taskTask 17382Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 8. Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.Core taskTask 17376Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 9. Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.Core taskTask 17388Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 10. Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.Core taskTask 17377Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 11. Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).Core taskTask 20568Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 12. Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.Core taskTask 17380Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 13. Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.Core taskTask 17392Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 14. Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.Core taskTask 17381Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 15. Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.Core taskTask 20570Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 16. Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.Core taskTask 17375Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 17. Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.Core taskTask 20566Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 18. Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.Core taskTask 20571Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 19. Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.Core taskTask 17383Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 20. Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.Core taskTask 17386Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 21. Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.Core taskTask 17384Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 22. Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.Core taskTask 20572Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 23. Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.Core taskTask 17378Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 24. Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.Core taskTask 17393Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 25. Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.Core taskTask 17379Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 26. Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.Core taskTask 20573Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 27. Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.Core taskTask 17394Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 28. Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.Core taskTask 17374Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 29. Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.Supplemental taskTask 17387Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
- Task 30. Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.Supplemental taskTask 20567Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
Where this comes from
Quoted from the U.S. Department of Labor, and credited. Nothing on this page is written by us.
How we copy and credit sources- Published byO*NET 29.0, U.S. Department of LaborEmployment and Training Administration
- ClassificationStandard Occupational Classification 2018, 29-2011
- LicenseCC BY 4.0Free to copy and reuse, with credit
- Changed by usNothing.
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