What does a Medical Laboratory Scientist do?
Medical laboratory scientists analyze biological specimens; they perform scientific tests on samples and report findings to physicians. They perform these tests using sophisticated equipment including a microscope and use the data to identify and treat ailments and diseases including cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. They work closely with physicians and medical laboratory technicians to diagnose and monitor disease processes and assist in monitoring the effectiveness of therapy.
Medical laboratory scientists examine and analyze blood, body fluids, tissues, and cells, and relay test results to physicians. They cross-match blood for potential transfusion information and monitor patient outcomes. They perform differential cell counts and check for abnormal cells that aid in the diagnosis of anemia or leukemia. They establish quality assurance to monitor and ensure test results’ accuracy and oversee medical laboratory technicians’ work. Medical laboratory technicians need a bachelor's degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, or related fields.
- Plan, design and execute experiments to support the current drug discovery portfolio.
- Engage and foster improvements to impact safety, quality, and efficiency.
- Perform the job responsibilities of a medical technologist or medical laboratory scientist.
- Review and approve test reports and QC results.
- Properly identify specimens (labeling) and problems with specimen integrity, (e.g., contamination and hemolysis).
- Participate in departmental or system wide meetings, projects or committees as required.
- Monitor inventory of supplies and orders supplies as necessary.
- Perform laboratory tests according to established protocols and procedures under supervision of assigned technician.
- Lead the daily activities and provide oversight of workflow and operations of the assigned area.
- Assist with coordinating services, prioritizing assignments and workflow, and promoting situational decision-making/problem solving.
- Provide complete, appropriate, and accurate documentation in accordance with regulatory and specific environment.
- Ensure that laboratory equipment and instruments are clean, functional, and calibrated.
- Conduct routine tests for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease and perform related duties.
- Assist with data collection or special projects for difficult cases.
- Bachelor’s degree in science or medical technology.
- ASCP certification
- Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills.
- Basic understanding of statistics and writing protocols.
- Knowledgeable about testing methodologies.
How much does a Medical Laboratory Scientist make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$61,817
/ yrMedical Laboratory Scientist Career Path
Learn how to become a Medical Laboratory Scientist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Medical Laboratory Scientist Insights
Parkview Medical Center“Positive reinforcement is a foreign concept and they don't understand they get what they pay for.”
HealthPartners“for me its a life and work balance that has me looking for a new career path.”
Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center“Provides career growth and has the best training ground”
“I want to update career wise and i need financial income.”
LifeCare Medical Center“I was a student in the lab of this facility where I was verbally abused.”
Antech Diagnostics“Interesting work and decent benefits for humans and excellent benefits for pets.”
Ascension“Coworkers are fun to work with and work well with others.”
“It is good for learning”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Medical Laboratory Tech
- Medical Technologist
- Clinical Laboratory Technologist
- Research Assistant