The Cytogenetics Laboratory at UT Health San Antonio is seeking a Senior level technologist to join the team. The UT Health Cytogenetics Laboratory is a state-of-the art clinical facility that offers diagnostic testing services to UT Health Physicians, in addition to various other partners. The Lab also provides research testing services to collaborators at the Mays Cancer Center, the Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute (GCCRI), UT Health San Antonio, and various other partners across the United States.

Senior technologists joining the cytogenetics lab will have the opportunity to work directly with some of the top cytogenetic technologists in the country and independently contribute to providing optimal patient care using cutting edge technology. Under minimal supervision of lab manager, Veronica Ortega, the Cytogenetic Technologist - Senior will coordinate and participate in specialized and complex technical tasks involved in screening slides of clinical specimens to detect evidence of cancer or other pathological conditions.

• Independently prepares tissue culture specimens using cytogenetics culturing procedures and harvests cell cultures at optimum time sequence based on knowledge of cell cycle differences and culture conditions.
• Independently performs slide preparation for chromosome analysis and FISH testing, and staining for microscopic analysis using routine and specialized banding techniques.
• Independently performs microscopy on routine and complex cytogenetic and FISH cases, computer image analysis, karyotyping, FISH scoring and result reporting using proper ISCN nomenclature.
• Independently collects and maintains detailed QA/QC documentation of specimens and reagents for presentation of trends at monthly laboratory meetings.
• Independently designs, performs and interprets data for process improvement validation studies.
• Participates in the training of junior technologists and rotating residents/fellows.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

• Proficient in preparing and processing tissue culture specimens using cytogenetics culturing and harvesting procedures.
• Experience operating and maintaining laboratory equipment and conducting regular assessments to record the lab equipment's performance.
• Demonstrates excellent sterile techniques.
• Ability to operate in a fast paced environment with established time constraints.
• Ability to communicate complex Genetics concepts.
• Ability to routinely safeguard and handle irretrievable specimen types.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience with molecular techniques including DNA extraction and microarray.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelors degree in Cytogenetics or bachelors degree in the biological, chemical and/or medical sciences, with a post-baccalaureate Cytogenetic certificate is required.

EXPERIENCE:

• Five (5) years of cytogenetic experience is required. And at least one (1) year of molecular genetics experience in DNA extraction and/or microarray techniques is desirable.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION:

• Certified as a Clinical Laboratory Specialist in Cytogenetics (CG) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).