Medical Laboratory Scientist

Common tasks

• Analyze samples of biological material for chemical content or reaction.
• Conduct chemical analysis of body fluids, including blood, urine, or spinal fluid, to determine presence of normal or abnormal components.
• Analyze laboratory findings to check the accuracy of the results.
• Enter data from analysis of medical tests or clinical results into computer for storage.
• Set up, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Collect and study blood samples to determine the number of cells, their morphology, or their blood group, blood type, or compatibility for transfusion purposes, using microscopic techniques.
• Operate, calibrate, or maintain equipment used in quantitative or qualitative analysis, such as spectrophotometers, calorimeters, flame photometers, or computer-controlled analyzers.
• Establish or monitor quality assurance programs or activities to ensure the accuracy of laboratory results.
• Supervise, train, or direct lab assistants, medical and clinical laboratory technicians or technologists, or other medical laboratory workers engaged in laboratory testing.
• Select and prepare specimens and media for cell cultures, using aseptic technique and knowledge of medium components and cell requirements.

Most important skills

Science

Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems.

Critical Thinking

Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.

Active Listening

Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.

Reading Comprehension

Reading work-related information.

Quality Control Analysis

Testing how well a product or service works.

Operations Monitoring

Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working.

Monitoring

Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements.

Active Learning

Figuring out how to use new ideas or things.