Molecular Cytogenetic Technologist

UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is excited to be hiring a Molecular Cytogenetic Technologist to help support the UPMC Cytogenetic Laboratory (UCL)! This role will be scheduled Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.- no weekends required!

The UCL is a state-of-the-art facility where you will have the opportunity to make an impact on life-changing medicine. Using both traditional cytogenetic techniques as well as molecular cytogenetics by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and genome-wide array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), the UCL performs chromosome studies on a wide variety of specimens, giving our patients the best opportunity to get the answers they need.

Responsibilities:

• Maintains records of specimen processing, including accessioning of samples, entering of patient data and results into departmental computer system and record books, and cross-referencing to cytogenetic specimens.
• Processes amniotic fluid, CVS, or tissue specimens for analysis of uncultured cells. Determines the number of slides to be made based on the size of the sample and clinical diagnosis.
• Cleans and maintains supplies and equipment. Monitors temperature of incubators, refrigerators, freezers, and water baths to ensure optimal equipment performance. Ensures that adequate supplies and reagents are kept on hand and ordered on time.
• Determines molecular cytogenetic diagnosis for patient in consultation with Senior Technologist and/or Lab Manager, Supervisor or Lab Director. Prepares and prints color images of analysis on each case for inclusion in the patient chart.
• Runs appropriate fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) or microarray comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) protocol based on referral diagnosis utilizing proper probe(s). Utilizes appropriate detection methods for optimal visualization of fluorescent signal(s).
• For aCGH tests, extracts DNA on patient samples and runs aCGH protocol. Analyzes aCGH findings and determines diagnosis in consultation with Sr. Technologists and/or Lab Supervisor, Manager or Lab Director. Prepares and prints images of aCGH analysis for inclusion in patient chart.
• For FISH tests, analyzes slides on a fluorescent microscope and determines and records the location of cells. Counts and records the number of signals present and determines if the appropriate number of signals are present or if a deletion, duplication, or rearrangement is present.
• Performs various additional testing for the development of probes, new techniques, and development of additional molecular cytogenetic tests to maintain the laboratory’s state-of-the-art technology.
• Responsible for following the mandatory reporting procedures for any incident or serious event that did affect or potentially could have affected the clinical care of any patient.