Tips on how to become laboratory scientist

About the Role

Clinical laboratory scientists (CLS) are the detectives of the medical field. They look for clues and analyze results to aid in diagnosis, which is necessary for treating disease and other medical conditions. The clues often come from body fluids, such as blood or tissue samples. In addition, they might oversee and manage the laboratory and ensure all equipment is working properly.

Education

Gain familiarity with the sciences as early as high school. Chemistry and biology are particularly important to understand as a lab scientist. Math is also an important subject to master. If you enjoy these subjects, this might be a good career for you.

Clinical laboratory scientists usually have a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences; clinical laboratory technicians generally need either an associate degree or a certificate. Lab scientists have a more extensive knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology techniques.

• Gather information on universities with programs specific to training clinical lab scientists. Degrees from accredited schools are nationally recognized and will make you more competitive as a job candidate.
• Take the proper coursework: biology, immunology, hematology, chemistry (organic, physical, and analytical), biochemistry, and physics (light and electricity).

Responsibilities

• Examine body fluids and tissues for parasites, bacteria, and other organisms.
• Analyze chemical content and reactions to determine cholesterol levels and match blood for transfusions.
• Measure types and levels of drugs in the system for treatment or to assess response to treatment.
• Use various laboratory equipment, including microscopes, cell counters, and computerized devices.
• Practice infection control procedures and wear proper protective equipment (PPE).
• Handle infectious materials safely, with training in basic lab safety and bloodborne pathogens.

Career Path

Look for jobs in the medical field. Hospitals are the leading employers, but clinical laboratory technologists are also employed by independent laboratories, physicians’ offices and clinics, and manufacturers of lab equipment and diagnostic supplies.

• Volunteer in a lab for additional experience and to decide if this is the right career for you.
• Specialize in a specific clinical laboratory field to be considered for specific jobs.
• Gain at least one year of post-graduation experience in a clinical laboratory to qualify for licensure. The training must be comprehensive in terms of the duties of a clinical scientist.