Medical Laboratory Scientist

Summary

Performs clinical laboratory testing for the detection and diagnosis of disease. All functions are carried out with consideration for age-specific patient needs. Refers unusual or complex situations to a Senior Medical Technologist or Manager for guidance.

Employees are expected to model Brown University Health’s core values:

• Compassion
• Accountability
• Respect
• Excellence

In addition, employees must demonstrate the following Success Factors:

• Instill trust and value differences
• Focus on patients and community
• Collaborate effectively

Key Responsibilities

General Responsibilities

• Demonstrate understanding of the hospital’s Mission, Vision, and Values
• Meet performance expectations and competency requirements
• Deliver excellent customer service in all interactions
• Follow all departmental and hospital policies and procedures
• Complete required safety and compliance training (hospital-wide and role-specific)
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives
• Notify healthcare providers of:
  • Unusual test results
  • Delays in testing

Laboratory Operations

• Operate laboratory equipment (manual, mechanical, and automated systems)
• Perform quality control (QC) procedures and equipment maintenance
• Maintain laboratory readiness (cleaning, stocking, preparation)
• Clean and maintain lab equipment and workspaces
• Assist in training new staff
• Support development of test protocols

Technical / Functional Areas

Phlebotomy

• Verify patient identity and specimen accuracy
• Collect blood samples from:
  • Neonates
  • Children
  • Adults
• Follow sterile technique and safety protocols
• Label specimens accurately
• Dispose of materials safely

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

• Enter and edit patient requisitions and test orders
• Record manual and non-interfaced test results
• Document report edits accurately
• Operate laboratory information systems effectively

Hematology

• Perform:
  • Blood counts
  • Cell morphology and differentiation
  • Sedimentation rates
  • Reticulocyte counts
  • Clotting studies

Urinalysis

• Conduct routine and microscopic examinations

Blood Bank / Immunology

• Prepare and dispense blood products (FFP, platelets, cryoprecipitate)
• Perform:
  • Blood typing and Rh screening
  • Antibody screening and identification
  • Rh immune globulin eligibility
  • Cord blood testing
• Verify blood unit types

Microbiology

• Perform gram stains and special stains
• Culture and identify microorganisms
• Conduct rapid antigen testing
• Operate blood culture systems and STAT PCR testing

Chemistry

• Perform coagulation studies
• Run routine chemistry tests on analyzers
• Maintain QC within acceptable ranges (±2 SD)
• Conduct minor instrument repairs
• Calibrate equipment

Safety Responsibilities

• Use appropriate PPE (gowns, gloves, face shields, etc.)
• Follow infection control and aseptic techniques
• Handle and store chemicals safely
• Follow SDS guidelines
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment

Proficiency Testing

• Participate in external proficiency testing
• Maintain satisfactory performance
• Adhere to Administrative Proficiency Testing Policy

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in:
  • Clinical Laboratory Science
  • Medical Technology
  • Chemical, Biological, or Physical sciences
    OR equivalent education/experience per CLIA standards

Certifications

• ASCP certification (or equivalent) in:
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Chemistry, Microbiology, Hematology, etc.
    OR
• Eligible for certification through approved lab training program (e.g., NAACLS, ABHES)
  OR
• Meets CLIA technologist qualification standards

Experience

• Minimum 1 year of clinical laboratory experience

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to operate laboratory instruments and perform tests accurately
• Strong analytical and interpretation skills
• Physical ability to stand and work at laboratory benches
• Visual acuity for specimen analysis
• Cultural competency and patient-centered care awareness

Work Environment

• Exposure to:
  • Infectious materials
  • Chemicals and hazardous substances
• Requires:
  • Standing for long periods
  • Lifting and carrying supplies
• Visual strain due to detailed specimen examination