# 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.

- Code: 29-2011.01 (O*NET-SOC; SOC 2018 29-2011)
- Family: [Healthcare Practitioners](https://foundation.org.ai/occupations#family-29), one of its 96 occupations
- Tasks: 30 tasks (28 core and 2 supplemental)
- Page: https://foundation.org.ai/occupations/29-2011.01
- JSON: https://foundation.org.ai/data/tasks/29-2011.01.json

## What the work is made of

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 task · Task 17390 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
2. Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.  
   Core task · Task 17389 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
3. Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.  
   Core task · Task 17385 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
4. Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.  
   Core task · Task 20569 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
5. Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.  
   Core task · Task 20565 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
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 task · Task 17391 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
7. Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.  
   Core task · Task 17382 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
8. Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.  
   Core task · Task 17376 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
9. Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.  
   Core task · Task 17388 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
10. Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.  
   Core task · Task 17377 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
11. Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).  
   Core task · Task 20568 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
12. Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.  
   Core task · Task 17380 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
13. Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.  
   Core task · Task 17392 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
14. Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.  
   Core task · Task 17381 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
15. Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.  
   Core task · Task 20570 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
16. Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.  
   Core task · Task 17375 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
17. Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.  
   Core task · Task 20566 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
18. Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.  
   Core task · Task 20571 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
19. Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.  
   Core task · Task 17383 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
20. Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.  
   Core task · Task 17386 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
21. Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.  
   Core task · Task 17384 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
22. Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.  
   Core task · Task 20572 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
23. Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.  
   Core task · Task 17378 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
24. Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.  
   Core task · Task 17393 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
25. Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.  
   Core task · Task 17379 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
26. Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.  
   Core task · Task 20573 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
27. Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.  
   Core task · Task 17394 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
28. Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.  
   Core task · Task 17374 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
29. Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.  
   Supplemental task · Task 17387 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021
30. Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.  
   Supplemental task · Task 20567 · Rated by 21 occupational experts, August 2021

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## Where this comes from

Quoted from O*NET 29.0, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0: free to copy and reuse, with credit. Nothing on this page is written by the Org.AI Foundation.
