Geneticist Lab Assistant

Working Schedule

• Geneticist Lab Assistants may work either full- or part-time in controlled environments.

Typical Duties

• Prepare, maintain, and calibrate equipment to ensure accurate results
• Manage laboratory inventories. Reorder supplies, reagents, gloves, masks, etc. Check expiration dates on perishable items
• Collect biological samples such as blood, tissue, or saliva for genetic analysis
• Perform DNA extraction from samples under the supervision of geneticists
• Prepare samples and reagents for storage and future use
• Conduct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests to amplify DNA for further study
• Operate instruments such as sequencers and microarrays
• Analyze genetic data using software tools to identify variations and anomalies
• Validate experimental results through tests and control comparisons
• Maintain records of protocols and results
• Continuously monitor the lab environment for temperature and cleanliness
• Ensure compliance with biosafety regulations to prevent contamination and ensure safe handling of hazardous materials
• Remove biological matter and ensure proper decontamination (if needed), labeling, transport, storage, or disposal
• Gather or make note of contaminated items for cleaning and sterilization. Physically clean devices and equipment, supplies, and other items as needed, using sanitizers, disinfectants, or autoclaves (as applicable)
• Keep records to track what needs to be done or has already been done

Additional Responsibilities

• Coordinate with external labs and facilities for specialized tests
• Provide data for grant proposals and research papers
• Troubleshoot experiment procedures to resolve problems
• Review relevant literature to stay informed about research advancements
• Attend meetings to discuss findings and plan future research
• Train new personnel on proper lab techniques and safety protocols

Soft Skills

• Analytical
• Attention to detail
• Communication skills
• Diligence
• Independence
• Initiative
• Methodical
• Monitoring skills  
• Motivation
• Organization
• Problem-solving abilities
• Reliability
• Responsibility
• Safety consciousness
• Sound judgment
• Teamwork

Technical Skills

Geneticist Lab Assistants need knowledge and skills related to the following:

• Gel electrophoresis for DNA and RNA separation
• Microscopes for cellular and molecular examination
• Bioinformatics software for analyzing genetic data
• Cell culture techniques
• Genotyping methods such as single nucleotide polymorphism analysis
• DNA/RNA extraction and purification
• Quantitative PCR for measuring DNA or RNA quantities
• Data analysis and statistical tools
• Sample preparation for next-generation sequencing
• Spectrophotometry techniques
• Laboratory information management systems
• Lab sterilization techniques and safe handling of chemicals 
  Data and DNA sample security 

• Universities and academic research institutes
• Biotechnology firms
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Government and private research labs

Geneticist Lab Assistants work with sensitive information that can have profound implications. Thus, handling genetic data comes with significant ethical considerations and the need for strict confidentiality. Ethical dilemmas can arise around privacy issues and the potential misuse of genetic data.

There’s always pressure to deliver accurate, timely results, which can lead to stress—especially when findings might influence important clinical decisions. The responsibility of handling materials that can alter lives weighs on many assistants and requires a high level of professionalism.

In addition, a commitment to education and skill enhancement is essential because technology and methodologies are always evolving. Geneticist Lab Assistants often need to take extra professional development courses or attend workshops, and many pursue further formal education!

The field of genetics is changing with the increasing use of CRISPR technology and other gene-editing tools that allow for precise DNA sequence alterations, opening new possibilities for research and therapy.

Geneticist Lab Assistants are called upon to perform more advanced tasks requiring a deeper understanding of molecular biology techniques—and the ethical implications of gene editing.

There’s significant growth in the realm of personalized medicine, using genetic information to tailor treatments to boost effectiveness. Genetic counseling has also expanded as people look for insights into their personal genetic risks. Lab assistants in these settings must stay up-to-date on research and know how to interpret complex genetic data. They’re increasingly treated as critical contributors and are therefore expected to be adept at using sophisticated genetic tools.

Geneticist Lab Assistants may have been very interested in science, chemistry, and biology growing up. They could have enjoyed looking at things under microscopes or conducting experiments and reviewing the results. Though they are comfortable working on teams, they’re also independent and don’t mind spending time researching things on their own.