Cytogenetics Technologist

Cytogenetic Technologist
New York, NY

MUST HAVE CANCER CYTOGENETICS EXPERIENCE

The Tumor Cytogenomics laboratory provides comprehensive genomic services for malignant hematological disorders, lymphomas and some solid tumors including breast cancer, sarcoma, urothelial carcinoma, melanoma, lung cancer etc. The Tumor Cytogenomics laboratory performs chromosome analysis for the diagnosis of acquired genomic rearrangements associated with hematopoietic disorders and some solid tumors. Complementary molecular technology using chromosomal, gene-specific probes, through fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and array comparative genomic hybridization with single nucleotide polymorphism (aCGH+ SNP) used to document molecular rearrangements, such as gains, losses, and gene rearrangements providing additional information on genomic changes that are not otherwise detected with other clinical tests. The cytogenetics, FISH, and aCGH +SNP results are mandatory for the diagnosis, prognosis, risk stratification and have therefore therapeutic implications for patients.

Job Summary
The Tumor CytoGenomics technologist must hold a NYSDOE license with a minimum of one year of laboratory experience in cytogenetics (may include one year as part of training for licensure). For each technologist, it is required to:

• To perform all techniques involved in processing patient samples including peripheral blood, bone marrow, and other tumor tissue.
• Possess technical understanding of microscopy (bright field, phase, inverted light, fluorescence), and utilize it for routine maintenance and calibration necessary for daily work.
• To provide extensive analysis and evaluation of chromosomal preparations, having a thorough knowledge in cytogenetics theory and principles.
• To provide extensive analysis using FISH technology (basic knowledge in FISH clinical testing).
• To provide clinical correlations of observed abnormalities with diagnostic and prognostic stages in disease states.
• To provide extensive analysis using aCGH+SNP (basic knowledge in molecular testing is required for test interpretation).
• Ability to discern acquired genetic variants (molecular and chromosomal) against the disease background is expected.
• To perform base-line functional checks, quality checks and basic maintenance records of high complexity testing equipment (automated microscopy, digital imaging, and robotic processor).
• To provide technical assistance in evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of new protocols, learn and practice modern developments in cancer CytoGenomics.
• To work solely with sophisticated CytoGenomics software (automated image capture and scanning software, array software) integrated with laboratory information system, to produce result reports. Basic technical knowledge in computers and interface connectivity for peripheral devices is necessary.
• To demonstrate proficiency with Soft Gene Cytogenetics module (SCC) from specimen processing all the way through result reporting; including database searches; and result retrieval based on the knowledge of hospital laboratory interface system (LIS).

Responsibilities

• Adhering to the laboratory's standard operating procedure (SOP) for specimen handling and processing, test analyses for conventional and molecular (FISH) cytogenetics, reporting and maintaining records of test examinations.
• Follow the laboratory's policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory's established acceptable levels of performance
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of state, federal and institutional standards regulatory compliance for accreditation and certification: College of American Pathologist (CAP), New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), and others.
• Maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens.
• Adhere to the laboratory's quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and service records.
• Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or test results and either correct the problems or immediately notify the supervisor or director.
• Document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications.
• To perform expedited analysis of cases with an acute conditions; requiring, to work outside of the normal working hours, under pressure. Laboratory personnel rotate by working during holidays, weekends and late-shift assignments.
• Learn and master new and improved cytogenetic and molecular methods to increase the efficiency of testing and reduce TAT of clinical tests. This includes laboratory developed tests (LDT's): assay development, testing, method validation, and implementation.
• Be proficient with the laboratory-used LIS system developed for cytogenetic testing, and troubleshoot basic issues pertaining to it.
• Interact with physicians, nurses, and physician assistants regarding patient results, treatment status, and consult on specimen sampling.
• Provide preliminary results of STAT/RUSH specimens, to the Supervisor and Director, for immediate communication to the physicians (critical alerts). Aptitude in this capacity is reached within 1 year of work.
• To actively teach pathology residents/fellows on rotation (6-10/year); and to train new junior staff members as per the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACMGE) requirements.

Qualifications :

• Must have bachelor's degree (BA or B.Sc. or B.S.) in a science discipline.
• NY Clinical Lab Technologist generalist license or restricted to cytogenetics
• Must have either a minimum of one year training in a facility approved by the NYSDOE license (Cytogenetics) or a degree in molecular cytogenetics, or be a trainee in the lab for a year.
• Recommend holding a certificate of qualification, from an approved agency such as American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
• Performance of a technologist in a cytogenetic laboratory is entirely dependent on experience in a busy clinical lab.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.