Medical Laboratory Scientist

The Pathology Technologist reports to the Pathology Manager and works under general supervision in accordance with departmental policies and procedures. This role performs complex clinical laboratory testing in one or more laboratory sections within the Pathology Department. The position requires professional-level knowledge to accurately perform, interpret, and analyze test results, particularly abnormal or atypical findings.

Key responsibilities include instrument calibration, quality control, test result reporting, and related laboratory functions.

Brown University Health employees are expected to model the organization's core values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence, which guide interactions with patients, customers, and colleagues.

Employees are also expected to demonstrate the core Success Factors, which define how we work and achieve results together:

• Instill Trust and Value Differences
• Patient and Community Focus and Collaborate

• Prepare solutions, reagents, and stains according to standard laboratory formulas and procedures; modify preparations as needed for specialized testing.
• Perform complex clinical laboratory testing in one or more sections of the Pathology Department, requiring professional judgment to monitor procedures, analyze results, and identify abnormalities.
• Perform routine and specialized blood testing, including:
  • Blood typing and cross-matching, assuming responsibility for donor-patient compatibility
  • Identification of abnormal blood incompatibility factors
  • Recognition of atypical blood specimen conditions
• Perform standard and advanced hematologic procedures, including:
  • Identification and quantification of formed blood elements (e.g., platelets, leukocytes)
  • Identification of coagulation factors
• Isolate and identify microorganisms from a variety of clinical specimens, with emphasis on rapid detection using specialized morphological and biochemical methods.
• Perform antibiotic susceptibility testing.
• Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids to assess conditions such as glucose levels, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chlorides), carbon dioxide, drugs, and alcohol levels.
• Record, review, and verify test results for accuracy; prepare and communicate test reports to authorized physicians and personnel.
• Discuss test findings with physicians as needed.
• Assist with instruction of students and residents and support orientation of new employees within assigned laboratory sections.
• Perform quality control checks on equipment and reagents; document results and identify potential issues.
• Participate in development, evaluation, and implementation of new tests and procedures, including making recommendations for modifications.
• Monitor equipment performance; set up, calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs.
• Log specimens and maintain specimen records throughout testing; collect blood specimens from patients following established procedures and transport specimens to Pathology.
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, glassware, work benches, and related areas.

Basic Knowledge

• Bachelor's degree in a laboratory science discipline (chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, medical technology, or related field), or equivalent education and experience as defined by CLIA standards.

Credentials

One of the following is required:

• National certification by ASCP or equivalent in one of the following or related categories: Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Hematology, or other recognized categorical certification
  OR
• Eligibility for national certification, including completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by ABHES, NAACLS, or another HHS-approved organization
  OR
• Previously qualified or eligible for qualification as a technologist under CLIA standards for testing personnel

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to operate laboratory equipment and instruments and accurately perform and interpret assigned tests and procedures
• Physical and visual dexterity required to conduct and evaluate laboratory testing
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work at laboratory benches
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills to provide patient care with consideration for aging processes, human development stages, and cultural differences

Experience

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a clinical laboratory setting

• Exposure to odors, infectious materials, toxins, and other hazardous substances
• Visual strain associated with prolonged specimen examination
• Regular requirement to stand and to lift, carry, and move laboratory supplies and materials