What Is a Medical Lab Scientist and How to Become One
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What Is a Medical Lab Scientist?
A medical lab scientist (MLS), also known as a clinical lab scientist (CLS) or medical technologist (MT), analyzes bodily fluids, tissue, and other specimens to search for signs of disease. These scientists work in hospitals and other clinical labs. They are instrumental in helping physicians provide comprehensive care to their patients. Their findings are vital in diagnosing diseases, finding cancerous cells, and matching blood types. Most medical lab scientists are generalists and run a variety of tests on different samples, but some specialize in a particular field, such as immunology.
How to Become a Medical Lab Scientist
A medical lab scientist (MLS) must have at least a bachelor’s degree in microbiology, clinical science, medical technology, or a related field. Those interested in specializing in a specific area can earn additional degrees in fields such as hematology or immunology. Some states and employers require medical lab scientists to pass a certification program that includes on-the-job training. Experience in a health care or medical field is another plus. Find apprenticeships in clinical labs to gain experience examining samples and identifying diseases. Seek medical lab scientist positions in public health labs, blood donor centers, pharmaceutical companies, fertility clinics, and other medical facilities.
Where Can a Medical Laboratory Scientist Work?
A medical lab scientist (MLS) works with physicians to examine patient specimens and be able to diagnose and treat disease. They almost always work in clinical laboratory settings, such as blood donor centers, fertility clinics, forensic labs, or public health labs. Positions are also available at biotechnology, chemical, and pharmaceutical companies. This career is a demanding one. You perform complex tests with high-tech machinery and work with potentially dangerous specimens, chemicals, and machines.
Can a Medical Laboratory Scientist Become a Doctor?
Medical lab scientists can become medical doctors by following the same education path as other aspiring doctors by attending medical school. To become a medical lab scientist, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in the sciences, and many of the required undergraduate courses overlap with the prerequisites for medical school. There may be additional qualifications, so research what other criteria you need to get into medical school.
