Cytogenetics Technologist (Healthcare Professional – Senior to Principal)

Job Summary:

The Colorado Genetics Laboratory (CGL), Department of Pathology, is seeking a full-time (1.0 FTE) technologist at the senior to principal level to join our clinical cytogenetics team. This position performs complex clinical cytogenomic testing utilizing standard and high-resolution chromosome analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis, and chromosomal microarray (CMA) analysis. Responsibilities also include specimen processing for prenatal diagnosis, postnatal constitutional genetic evaluation, and oncology testing to support cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

In addition to performing testing, the technologist may review cases completed by other staff members for accuracy, completeness, and interpretation before Laboratory Director review, as appropriate for the position level. The technologist may also preview cases to ensure the requested testing is appropriate for the clinical indication and specimen received, support laboratory workflow and process decisions, and contribute to efficient laboratory operations.

The technologist participates in quality control and quality assurance activities, supports the development, validation, and implementation of new testing methodologies, and supports continuous improvement as cytogenomic technologies evolve. The successful candidate will adhere to established laboratory procedures, policies, and regulatory requirements while fostering a collaborative, efficient, and mission-driven work environment dedicated to providing high-quality patient care.

Key Responsibilities:

Case analysis, summary, and standardized interpretations – 50%

• Performs comprehensive constitutional chromosome analysis on peripheral blood, amniotic fluid, chorionic villus sampling, products of conception, tissue, and other applicable specimen types.

• Identifies and documents numerical and structural chromosome abnormalities, variants, mosaicism, and complex or unusual findings in accordance with laboratory procedures and current ISCN nomenclature.

• Prepares high-quality digitized karyotypes using computerized imaging systems and ensures representative cells and findings are appropriately documented.

• Correlates chromosome findings with FISH, chromosomal microarray, and other available cytogenomic results, as applicable.

• Prepares case summaries, standardized interpretations, and supporting documentation for technical and Laboratory Director review.

• Identifies cases requiring additional analysis, FISH analysis, parental testing, CMA testing, or other follow-up and escalates complex or discrepant findings as appropriate.

• Participates in proficiency testing and quality activities related to constitutional chromosome analysis.

Technical Case Review and Interpretation – 25%

• Performs technical review of completed constitutional chromosome analyses and karyotypes, as authorized based on position level, training, and demonstrated competency.

• Reviews cases for analytical accuracy, completeness, appropriate cell selection, documentation, and correct application of ISCN nomenclature prior to Laboratory Director review.

• Evaluates complex and unusual findings and assists with resolution of analytical discrepancies or review of cases requiring additional workup.

• At the Principal level, provides advanced technical review and consultation for highly complex cases, supports standardization of analytical and interpretive practices, and assists with resolution of difficult or discrepant findings.

Sample Processing and Preparation for constitutional chromosome analysis – 15%

• Performs specimen processing for constitutional chromosome analysis, including initiation, maintenance, and harvest of cell cultures and preparation of high-quality metaphase cell chromosome slides. Performs specimen processing for FISH and chromosomal microarray (CMA) testing, including DNA extraction, as needed, to support laboratory operations.

• Selects and performs appropriate specimen processing methodologies and techniques to produce high-quality cytogenetic and molecular preparations that meet established laboratory quality standards.

• Contributes to quality control, quality assurance, process improvement, and troubleshooting activities. Recognizes, resolves when appropriate, and communicates processing deviations, equipment malfunctions, or other issues affecting testing quality or workflow.

• Maintains proficiency in sterile technique, cell culture, DNA extraction, laboratory instrumentation, laboratory information systems, and the safe handling and disposal of biohazardous materials and hazardous chemicals.

• Participates in the validation, implementation, and optimization of new cytogenomic testing methodologies, laboratory procedures, equipment and instrumentation, and reagents, as assigned.

Participates in orientation and training – 10%

• Assists with the orientation and training of new employees, genetics students, residents, fellows, and other healthcare professionals in constitutional chromosome analysis, wet laboratory processing, and established laboratory procedures to promote competency, consistency, and compliance with laboratory standards.

• Provides guidance and technical support to less experienced staff, as appropriate for the position level.

Work Location:

Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO. Eligible duties may be performed remotely based on operational needs and Manager approval.

Why Join Us:

Welcome to the Department of Pathology of the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The Department has grown substantially in the past 15 years, from 40 to 120 faculty in parallel with the remarkable growth of our hospital based affiliates as well as the city and county of Denver. Our work is value driven and focused on scientific investigation, lifelong learning and a balance of personal and professional values. In addition to a vibrant and highly competitive residency program with 25 positions, we offer 9 fellowships and participate in numerous graduate school and the MD/PhD program of the CU School of Medicine.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options

• Dental: Multiple plan options

• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision

• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay

• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year

• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)

• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)

• Holiday Days: 15/year

• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses

• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Senior Professional:

• Bachelor's degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing, health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or a directly related field from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in clinical cytogenetics, including constitutional chromosome analysis.

• ASCP certification in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP), or equivalent certification.

Principal Professional

• Bachelor's degree in biological science, nutrition, nursing, health, human services, psychology, counseling, social work, or a directly related field from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in clinical cytogenetics, including substantial experience in constitutional chromosome analysis and technical case review.

• ASCP certification in Cytogenetics, CG(ASCP), or equivalent certification.

An advanced degree (Masters or Doctorate) may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis if the degree is in a field of study directly related to the work assignment.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a clinical cytogenetics laboratory.