Working in medical laboratory science is a fascinating career that combines science and technology with the opportunity to help people.

Consider this:

  • On the top 20 list of best jobs*
  • Professional-level salary
  • Excellent job prospects - medical laboratory technologists are in demand
  • Well-respected profession
  • Interesting and challenging work
  • Room for advancement and leadership positions
  • Evolving technology means continuous learning

*1999 best-seller, Jobs Rated Almanac: the Best and Worst Jobs.
Medical laboratory technologists ranked 16 in a list of 250 jobs,
and third in the healthcare / medicine / occupational category.

Areas of Specialty

There are thousands of different tests that are performed in speciality areas of the medical laboratory:

Clinical Chemistry

Conducts tests on blood and body fluid to detect chemicals, hormones and/or drugs.
Common Test: Blood Glucose (blood sugar) to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

Clinical Microbiology

Conducts tests on blood, body fluid and/or tissue samples to detect bacteria, fungi, viruses, and/or parasites.
Common Test: Throat swab to detect strep throat.

Hematology

Conducts tests to measure blood cells and to detect diseases/disorders of the blood.
Common Test: Hemoglobin Test to detect anemia.

Transfusion Science

Conducts blood typing and blood compatibility tests.
Common Test: Cross-matching for blood transfusions.

Histology

Prepares samples of body tissue for tests to detect disease.
Common Test: Biopsy of a breast lump.

Diagnostic Cytology

Conducts tests on cells taken from the body to detect cancer.
Common Test: Pap test to detect cervical cancer.

Clinical Genetics

Conducts tests on chromosomes, DNA and RNA from cells of body fluids and tissues, to diagnose genetic diseases.
Common Test: Amniocentesis and other forms of pre-natal testing.

Other speciality areas include immunology, electron microscopy, virology, parasitology and flow cytometry.

As a medical laboratory technologist (MLT), you'll:

  • Perform sophisticated laboratory tests that help diagnose and treat disease
  • Use complex instruments and electronic equipment
  • Ensure test results are accurate
  • Work independently but as an essential part of the health care team

Last Updated (Thursday, 04 March 2010 12:56)