How to Be Clinical Lab Scientist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 20, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Clinical laboratory scientists, also known as medical laboratory scientists, play an important role in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Their work begins with collecting and analyzing samples of blood, tissue and other bodily fluids, which they use to detect the presence of abnormal cells or organisms. The results of these tests can be used by physicians to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases, including cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

clinical laboratory scientists use their knowledge of chemistry and microbiology to develop tests that allow for the accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases. As a result, their contributions to the field of medicine are invaluable and have a direct impact on patient outcomes.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a clinical lab scientist is to earn a bachelor's degree in a field such as medical technology, biology, chemistry, or a related field. This typically takes four years of full-time study.
Complete an Accredited Program. After graduating from college, prospective clinical lab scientists must complete an accredited program. This typically consists of a one-year internship in a clinical laboratory setting.
Obtain Certification. After completing the accredited program, candidates must pass the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) exam to become certified as a clinical lab scientist.
Get Licensed. In some states, clinical lab scientists must also obtain a license in order to practice. Requirements vary by state, but they typically include passing an additional exam and having a certain amount of supervised laboratory experience.
Maintain Certification. Clinical lab scientists must renew their certifications every three years by taking continuing education courses and passing the ASCP exam again.

The clinical lab scientist must stay ahead and capable in order to remain successful. To accomplish this, it is important to stay up to date with the latest technology, trends, research, and developments in the field. Keeping abreast of new methods, techniques, and equipment can help the clinical lab scientist stay ahead of the competition and provide more accurate and efficient results.

continuing education and training are essential for staying competent and knowledgeable in the field. Attending conferences, workshops, and seminars can help the clinical lab scientist stay current and knowledgeable on best practices and guidelines. Finally, networking with colleagues and peers is another important way to stay ahead and successful in the field of clinical lab science.

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Job Description

Perform routine and specialized laboratory tests and analyses to obtain data for use in diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, microscopes, and automated analyzers.
Prepare samples for analysis, using a variety of laboratory techniques.
Evaluate test results and quality control procedures, refer abnormal results to a specialist for further investigation.
Document test results and maintain records according to standard operating procedures.
Monitor inventory levels of reagents, supplies, and equipment.
Train and mentor junior laboratory personnel.
Consult with physicians and other health care professionals to provide advice on laboratory tests and results.
Participate in research studies related to laboratory testing and operations.
Follow safety protocols and ensure adherence to quality assurance standards.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of laboratory testing and techniques
Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols
Ability to follow complex instructions and procedures
Ability to accurately document results
Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve
Ability to work independently
Ability to work as part of a team
Good communication skills
Attention to detail
Computer proficiency
Proficiency in operating various laboratory equipment
Knowledge of regulatory standards and requirements

Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS) play a vital role in medical diagnosis and care, as their expertise and knowledge in laboratory analysis are essential for accurate results. An important skill for successful CLSs is the ability to accurately interpret and analyze data. The ability to accurately interpret test results is critical as it can lead to accurate diagnoses, which can make all the difference in patient care.

CLSs need to be able to identify trends in data and recognize abnormalities in laboratory results. Furthermore, CLSs must be able to effectively communicate with other healthcare professionals, as they often collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other staff to ensure the best possible outcome for patients. Finally, CLSs must be organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in order to efficiently analyze test results and provide effective patient care.

Having these skills is essential for all CLSs to excel in their profession.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in a clinical lab setting?
How would you approach troubleshooting a laboratory instrument?
Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult patient.
What safety protocols do you follow when working with hazardous materials?
How would you ensure accurate results when performing tests?
What methods do you use to stay up to date on new developments and trends in the clinical lab sciences field?
How do you handle unexpected results or data?
What methods do you use to keep accurate records of laboratory tests?
Describe a time when you had to innovate or implement a new process or procedure in the clinical lab.
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with a large workload?

Common Tools in Industry

Spectrophotometer. An instrument used to measure the intensity of light in different wavelengths. (eg: A spectrophotometer can be used to measure protein concentrations in a sample. )
Flow Cytometer. A device used to count and analyze particles in a fluid, usually cells. (eg: A flow cytometer can be used to identify cell types in a blood sample. )
Microscope. An optical instrument used to magnify small objects for observation. (eg: A microscope can be used to examine individual cells in a sample. )
Centrifuge. An instrument used to separate components of a mixture based on density. (eg: A centrifuge can be used to separate red blood cells from plasma in a blood sample. )
PCR Machine. A device used to amplify small amounts of DNA or RNA in a short amount of time. (eg: A PCR machine can be used to detect specific genetic markers in a sample. )
Autoclave. An instrument used to sterilize equipment and supplies using pressurized steam. (eg: An autoclave can be used to sterilize medical instruments such as forceps and scalpels. )

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)
Clinical Laboratory Management Association (CLMA)
American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC)
The National Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (NSCLS)
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL)
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)
International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC)
American Board of Clinical Chemistry (ABCC)
American Society for Microbiology (ASM)

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Common Important Terms

Hematology. The study of blood and its components, such as red and white blood cells and platelets.
Immunology. The study of the immune system and its response to foreign substances.
Microbiology. The study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Molecular Biology. The study of the structure, function, and interactions of molecules in cells.
Biochemistry. The study of the chemistry of living organisms and their components, such as proteins, lipids, and hormones.
Pathology. The study of the causes and effects of diseases.
Cytology. The study of the structure and function of cells.
Clinical Chemistry. The study of chemical reactions related to diagnosis and treatment of disease.
Clinical Immunology. The study of the immune system and its response to disease or foreign substances.
Clinical Microbiology. The study of microorganisms that cause disease.
Clinical Pathology. The study of diseases through examination of specimens such as urine, blood, and tissue samples.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Clinical Lab Scientist?

A Clinical Lab Scientist is a healthcare professional who performs laboratory tests to diagnose and treat diseases, using sophisticated instruments and specialized techniques.

What qualifications are required to become a Clinical Lab Scientist?

To become a Clinical Lab Scientist, one must have at least a bachelor's degree in a related science field such as biology, chemistry, medical technology, or medical laboratory science. Clinical Lab Scientists must also obtain a certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

What type of work will a Clinical Lab Scientist do?

Clinical Lab Scientists are responsible for performing a variety of laboratory tests to evaluate patient samples and diagnose diseases. These tests include hematology, microbiology, biochemistry, serology, and immunohematology. They also analyze patient specimens and interpret results, as well as maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment.

What are the job prospects for a Clinical Lab Scientist?

The job outlook for Clinical Lab Scientists is positive, with an expected growth rate of 8 percent over the next decade. This is due to an increased demand for diagnostic testing as well as an aging population that will require more laboratory services.

What is the average salary for a Clinical Lab Scientist?

The median annual salary for a Clinical Lab Scientist is around $60,000 per year. Salary can vary depending on experience, location, and type of employer.