Laboratory Scientist
About the role
A higher education requirement includes completing a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or clinical laboratory science. A bachelor’s degree in a science or health-related field (e.g., chemistry or microbiology) may also be considered. Additionally, completion of a clinical laboratory program or internship through a hospital-based program or as part of their education is required. National certification as a medical technologist (MT), clinical laboratory scientist (CLS), or medical laboratory scientist (MLS) is necessary. Previous experience in a healthcare setting is also expected.
Responsibilities and duties
- Examining and analyzing blood, body fluids, tissues, and cells
- Relaying test results to physicians
- Utilizing microscopes, cell counters, and other high-precision lab equipment
- Cross matching blood for transfusion
- Monitoring patient outcomes
- Performing differential cell counts to look for abnormal cells that can aid in the diagnosis of anemia and leukemia
- Establishing quality assurance programs to monitor and ensure the accuracy of test results
- Oversight of the work of a medical laboratory technician
Requirements
National certification as a medical technologist (MT), clinical laboratory scientist (CLS), or medical laboratory scientist (MLS) is required.
Qualifications
Previous experience in a healthcare setting is expected.