• Develop, test and evaluate new laboratory methods, products and instruments.
• Utilize statistical tools for evaluation of data.
• Analyze data for acceptability.
• Evaluate effectiveness of new types of clinical treatment.
• Publish and/or present findings of studies.

Examples of qualifications needed to perform this job:

• Knowledge and performance of laboratory analyses (scientific and technical skills)
• Statistical analytical skills
• Ability to perform and analyze multiple tasks/information
• Problem-solving skills
• Written and oral communication skills
• Interpersonal skills

Additional education needed:

Will depend on job description and responsibilities.

Some positions may require a baccalaureate degree while others will require a master’s or doctorate.

Where to look for employment:

Web pages of laboratory diagnostic companies, pharmaceutical companies and research laboratories

(look under Research and Development)

Testimonial:

"I have a fairy-tale job. I do research on new anti-fungal agents and test new drugs on patients in clinical trials and I perform clinical work with patient specimens. The world of fungal testing is busier than ever before. Lifesaving medical advances, such as chemotherapy, keep cancer patients alive but suppress their immune systems. These have led to an increase in fungal infections throughout the world. We are always testing new agents that may reduce or better control these infections.

Whatever the job, there will be some on-the-job training, but when you graduate from a Clinical Laboratory Science program, you will have all the skills and tools you need to be effective in whatever career path you choose."

Annette Fothergill, MA, MBA, CLS(NCA)
Fungus Testing Laboratory
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

Annette is a 1987 graduate of the CLS program at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.