Molecular Genetic Technologist

To be a successful Molecular Genetic Technologist you should…

• show accuracy and attention to detail
• be a problem solver
• like challenge and responsibility
• be reliable, emotionally stable, and able to finish a task
• be able to work independently with little supervision

What will my job be like?

Molecular technologists are needed to match donors and recipients for tissue and organ transplantation, diagnose human disease and inherited disorders, identify missing and displaced persons, identify war and disaster victims, determine parentage, and rule in/out suspects in criminal cases. Individuals with skills in the molecular technologies are also needed in a variety of research and industry settings.

Where could I work?

Most positions in molecular genetics are located in research laboratories, often in universities or medical schools, but an increasing number of clinical laboratories are beginning to incorporate molecular techniques into their daily routine.

What is the average annual salary?

$74,200

What is the future of this career?

Employment of genetic counselors is projected to grow 29 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Ongoing technological innovations, including improvements in lab tests and developments in genomics, which is the study of the whole genome, are giving counselors opportunities to conduct more types of analyses.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

The Molecular Diagnostic Sciences Certificate Program is designed for individuals with bachelor’s degrees in cytogenetics, clinical laboratory sciences (medical technology), or the biological or natural sciences.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• University of Connecticut– School of Allied Health, Storrs

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?

Association of Genetic Technologists
219 Timberland Trail Lane
Rocky Top, TN  37769
423-567-4AGT
www.agt-info.org