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29-2011.01 · Task explorer

Cytogenetic Technologists: reported tasks and exploration worksheet

Analyze chromosomes or chromosome segments found in biological specimens, such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, solid tumors, and blood to aid in the study, diagnosis, classification, or treatment of inherited or acquired genetic diseases. Conduct analyses through classical cytogenetic, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) or array comparative genome hybridization (aCGH) techniques.

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This source lists 30 tasks, including 28 marked Core and 2 marked Supplemental. Labels and dates are retained below. Employers can combine or divide these responsibilities differently; explore the task itself before assuming it belongs in every version of the role.

Task source dates: 08/2026.

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30 tasks shown

Core · Task 17390 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.

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Core · Task 17391 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.

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Core · Task 17388 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.

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Core · Task 17382 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.

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Core · Task 17385 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.

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Core · Task 17380 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.

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Core · Task 20568 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).

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Core · Task 20569 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.

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Core · Task 20571 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.

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Core · Task 17376 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.

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Core · Task 17389 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.

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Core · Task 20566 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.

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Core · Task 17392 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.

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Core · Task 20567 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Extract, measure, dilute as appropriate, label, and prepare DNA for array analysis.

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Core · Task 20565 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.

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Core · Task 17377 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.

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Core · Task 17378 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.

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Core · Task 20570 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.

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Core · Task 17375 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.

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Core · Task 17383 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.

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Core · Task 17384 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.

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Core · Task 20573 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.

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Core · Task 17381 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.

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Core · Task 17393 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.

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Core · Task 20572 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.

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Core · Task 17379 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.

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Core · Task 17394 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.

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Core · Task 17374 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.

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Supplemental · Task 17386 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.

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Supplemental · Task 17387 · 08/2026 · Occupational Expert

Communicate test results or technical information to patients, physicians, family members, or researchers.

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Source and practice material

Occupational context uses the O*NET® 31.0 Database from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. View the occupation.

Skill Workbench selected and adapted the occupational information and added its own fictional cases, calculations, guidance and worksheets. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.