Cytogenetics Technologist II - Nationwide Children's Hospital

We are seeking a Cytogenetic Technologist II within the Institute for Genomic Medicine's Genomic Services Laboratory.  The Cytogenetic Technologist processes clinical specimens from patients who are referred for constitutional cytogenetic diagnosis or select cancer FISH analysis. The ideal candidate will perform sample handling, sample quality control assessment, and complex laboratory processes and associated analyses in this position.  Additional responsibilities involve providing friendly customer service, assisting with operational improvement, and performing required lab-associated tasks to include preventative maintenance. An opportunity is available for on-the-job technical training for candidates who meet the minimal qualifications for the position.

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Performing routine and complex technical laboratory procedures potentially including, but not limited to:

Sample handling:

• Prenatal specimens (e.g. amniotic fluid, fetal tissue)
• Postnatal specimens (e.g. peripheral blood, fibroblasts)
• Solid tumor and bone marrow specimens for neuroblastoma, medulloblastoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma FISH studies

Sample processing:

• Set up and/or maintenance of cultures for constitutional chromosome analysis
• Harvesting of cultures and slide preparation for chromosome analysis
• Prepare and stain slides for chromosome and FISH analysis using appropriate staining methods

Sample analysis:

• Screens slides using bright field microscopy for constitutional chromosome analysis, which includes modal count, band for band analysis, karyotyping and prepares karyograms
• Screens slides using fluorescent microscopy for constitutional and cancer FISH analysis, which includes assessment of signal quality, number and pattern
• Documents chromosome and FISH analysis using an imaging system

This position does require computer work using LIMS and other related software

Follows clinical laboratory testing procedures and policies

Maintains record-keeping, including verification and monitoring of laboratory equipment, results reporting, and quality control/assurance surveillance

Participates in CAP proficiency testing survey, maintains competency within all areas trained and meets continuing education requirements

Assists with the teaching and training of rotating medical professionals (e.g. residents, fellows, genetic counseling students)

Provides courteous and informative internal and external customer service

To fulfill this role successfully, you must possess these minimum qualifications and experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in biological or physical sciences from an accredited institution; new grads welcome (will train).
• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification exam must be completed within 2/3 years of start date if not currently certified under ASCP, dependent of hiring level.
• Ability to change communication styles to adapt to various cultural differences

Your Benefits and Wellness:

As an employer, Nationwide Children’s recognizes the importance of the benefits we offer. We also recognize the importance of balancing your work and personal needs.  Our benefits and Employee Wellness package is designed to:

• Empower you to be a conscientious health care consumer through educational and wellness activities
• Establish a work environment that promotes health and well-being
• Support your financial protection and security in retirement.
• Most positions are benefit eligible from the first day of employment.

Minimum Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand for more than 1 hour at a time, sit for more than 1 hour at a time. Good visual and auditory acuity.  Full use of hands and arms.  Ability to speak clearly.  Ability to lift 30 pounds occasionally.  Must complete color blind testing. 

The above list of duties describes the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this classification.  The duties described are not intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. 

EOE M/F/Disability/Vet