Cytogenetics Technologist at Portland, OR (Downtown) in Portland, Oregon

Job Description:

Overview

Every Knight Cancer employee is expected to embody our guiding principles:

• We act BOLDLY—Breakthroughs require pushing the boundaries of science, exploring new frontiers, and thinking differently
• We SUPPORT each other—Respect leads to trust, which leads to excellence
• We work as a CONNECTED team — We must leverage our collective brain power to conquer cancer because no one individual can do it alone

Duties Include:

• Laboratory Procedures. Initiates and maintains amniotic fluid, solid tissue, and blood/bone marrow cultures for both routine and prometaphase chromosome analysis; prepares culture media and solutions; harvests tissue cultures and prepares cells for chromosome or molecular cytogenetic analysis by both routine and special means; makes slide preparations, stains chromosome preparations using both routine and special techniques; performs microscopic analysis and captures images using ASI system to prepare karyograms, and for fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) testing on metaphase and interphase preparations (including tissue sections); extracts, labels, hybridizes and scans DNA samples for microarray testing; enters data into laboratory information system.
• Prepares summary of procedures and findings; keeps appropriate records; makes and answers telephone calls related to obtaining specimens and patient information needed for sample processing and preparing reports; participates in training of new laboratory personnel, residents, post docs, and fellows.
• Promotes excellent customer service, clear communication, excellent teamwork and maintains a professional demeanor at all times even under stressful conditions.

Responsibilities

• Bachelor's degree in biological science AND Completion of a certified cytogenetic technologist training program or one year of experience performing human traditional and molecular cytogenetics; OR An equivalent combination of training and experience
• Strong technical skills in clinical cytogenetics
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers and clients
• Knowledge and/or experience with automated karyotyping and laboratory information systems
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems
• Must have demonstrated excellent customer service skills both on the phone and in person
• Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with courses in genetics, cytogenetics, and/or molecular biology
• Experience in a fast paced, multidisciplinary, clinical cytogenetics CLIA-approved laboratory environment
• Experience with microarray wet lab and analysis. Experience with fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) on metaphase and interphase preparations, including tissue sections
• ASCP certification in clinical cytogenetic technology