Laboratory technologists analyze living and non-living matter in clinical or scientific research laboratories. They specialize in different fields, such as histology, virology, hematology, chemistry, food science, or forensic studies. Technologists work in teams to conduct experiments and ensure accurate results. Educational requirements vary, but a bachelor’s degree is generally required.
A laboratory technologist is a scientist who analyzes samples of living and non-living matter in a laboratory environment. He or she carefully examines a sample using sophisticated laboratory equipment to learn about its composition. Most jobs for laboratory technologists are found in either clinical laboratories or scientific research laboratories, and there is considerable scope for specialization in both settings. A professional in a clinical laboratory might focus on histology, virology, hematology, or another medical specialty, while a technologist in a science lab might focus on chemistry, food science, or forensic studies. Educational requirements for laboratory technologist jobs can vary, although a professional will generally need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree in their specialty.
Most clinical laboratory technologist jobs are found in hospitals, health clinics and private medical laboratories. Technologists work alongside other scientists and laboratory technicians to collect and analyze samples of human tissue, fluid, and blood. They attempt to determine the presence and identities of different diseases, bacteria, or other harmful or unnatural substances. Technologists often correspond with physicians to explain their findings and decide on the appropriate treatment for a patient.
A technologist in a clinical laboratory may choose to specialize in one or more fields. A professional specializing in histology examines tissue samples, looking for signs of bacteria, parasites or fungi. A hematology technologist collects and screens blood samples to identify diseases, and a blood bank technologist prepares healthy blood for transfusions. Specialists in virology and immunology analyze strains of viruses and other types of illnesses, hoping to learn more about their causes, their effects on the body, and potentially effective treatments against them.
The jobs of scientific laboratory technologists can be found in independent laboratories, universities, biotechnology companies, and research and development companies in a variety of industries. Technologists often conduct complete experiments on the subject to determine its components, function and capability in manufacturing or medicine. Most professionals work as a team to ensure that experiments are unbiased and that results are accurate.
Chemistry technologists specialize in analyzing the chemical composition of organic and inorganic samples. They may want to determine the amount of a particular chemical, such as a pollutant, in a sample of air, water or soil. Food science technologists develop new foods, preservatives, processing techniques, and packaging materials. The jobs of forensic laboratory technologists involve collecting and investigating evidence from the crime scene in order to determine the exact nature of the crimes, identify criminals, and bring justice to those harmed. Other technologists may specialize in microbiology, aquatic studies, or environmental science.
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