How to Become a Laboratory Scientist

Medical laboratory scientists are highly-trained professionals who analyse samples to diagnose and treat diseases. They collaborate closely with physicians to recommend the appropriate treatment for both individual patients and certain groups.

A medical laboratory scientist is a laboratory-based professional who assesses both the presence and absence of disease in samples from patients. They produce information and data from their laboratory work, and then collaborate with physicians to advise on the best form of treatment and patient care.

They also conduct experiments to look for trends in certain diseases so that they can advise the general population on prevention and cure of these illnesses. 

Their laboratory work will consist of duties such as: 

• Examining and analysing samples, including body fluids, tissues, and cells.
• Searching for abnormalities and diagnosing diseases. 
• Cross-matching blood from donors for blood transfusions.
• Testing blood for levels of an administered drug to see if treatments are effective.
• Looking at test results and considering their accuracy. 
• Testing new products. 
• Consulting with physicians about patient care. 

Medical laboratory scientists have similar duties to medical laboratory technicians, and indeed, many scientists begin as technicians. However, medical laboratory scientists have more extensive theoretical knowledge and can do more advanced testing, including molecular diagnostics and microbiological testing.

To become a medical laboratory scientist, a candidate should have secondary qualifications in biology, chemistry, and maths. Most then obtain a degree in a relevant field and take a certification course that will give them a license to practice in laboratories. This typically takes about three years and will need to be renewed every few years. 

However, it is possible to enter this field with no tertiary education. Through this programme, relevant secondary qualifications are needed and the training process to become a medical laboratory scientist is slightly longer. Candidates should have some experience volunteering in a laboratory when applying for this position.

The laboratories that medical laboratory scientists work in are in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, blood donor centres, forensic industries, veterinary clinics, or other settings. 

Most laboratories operate 24/7, and many medical laboratory scientists work shifts – so they could need to work unsocial hours. They will generally be on their feet all day while working. 

 iThey will need keen science and technology skills and have the ability to perform tasks with precision. They should also be excellent problem solvers, and be able to deal with people’s medical conditions and personal information sensitively.