Cytogenetics Technologist
OHSU Doernbecher Childrens Hospital
Portland, OR
days
Sign-On Bonus

Cytogenetics Technologist

Department Overview The OHSU Knight Cancer Institute is a pioneer in personalized cancer treatment and research, led by Dr. Brian Druker, whose development of Gleevec transformed Chronic Myeloid Leukemia from a fatal disease to a manageable one and proved that targeted therapies can work. The institute focuses on precision oncology, the early detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer, and creating a welcoming and supportive environment for its caregivers, researchers, and support personnel. Knight affiliates subscribe to three guiding principles: we are bold, we are supportive, and we work as a connected team in our fight to end cancer as we know it. We'd love for you to join us! With decades of academic laboratory experience in pathology and genetics, the Knight Diagnostic Laboratories deliver advanced diagnostic testing to make personalized medicine a reality. Specializing in oncology, rare genetic disorders, and infectious disease, the laboratories are CLIA certified and CAP accredited. Our Medical Directors and seasoned technical staff have many years of experience in clinical testing and test development and are dedicated to providing the best quality service for physicians and their patients. Through our close partnership with the Knight BioLibrary and Histopathology Shared Resource Laboratories, research investigators can gain access to human biological specimens, histology, and immunohistochemistry services. Function/Duties of Position The purpose of this position is to perform all aspects of cytogenetic technological assessment of patient samples in preparation for Director interpretation of highly complex genetic testing results. This position supports the mission and objectives of the laboratory, OHSU, and the Knight Cancer Institute. The duties require initiative and independent decision-making, and appropriate communication and discussion of results with fellow workers, supervisors, directors, and a variety of health care professionals. 1. 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 2. 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. 3. 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. 4. Promotes excellent customer service, clear communication, excellent teamwork and maintains a professional demeanor at all times even under stressful conditions. Required Qualifications Education & Experience: * Bachelor's degree in a 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 * Completion of a certified cytogenetic technologist training program and/or two years of experience performing human traditional and/or molecular cytogenetics in a CLIA-approved laboratory; * OR An equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies): * 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 Preferred Qualifications Education & Experience: * Bachelor's degree with courses in genetics, cytogenetics, and/or molecular biology Job Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Competencies): * Experience in a fast paced, multidisciplinary clinical cytogenetics laboratory environment * Experience with microarray wet lab and analysis. Experience with fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) on metaphase and interphase preparations, including tissue sections Registrations, Certifications and/or Licenses: * ASCP certification in clinical cytogenetic technology Additional Details Please submit a cover letter with your application to be considered. All are welcome Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or [email protected].