What does a Laboratory Assistant do?
Published 3 min read
A laboratory assistant is a person who works in a laboratory, helping scientists with their work.
Laboratory Assistant job duties include:
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and keeping the work area clean
- Collecting and preparing samples for analysis
- Performing routine laboratory tests and experiments
- Recording and analyzing data
- Presenting results and findings to supervisors or other scientists
- Assist senior scientists with more complex experiments
- May be responsible for ordering supplies and maintaining inventory
- May oversee the work of technicians or other assistants
- Adhering to safety protocols
Laboratory Assistant Job Requirements
A Laboratory Assistant typically needs an Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, although some positions may only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification from a professional organization such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is usually required. Some states have certification requirements as well. Previous experience working in a laboratory is often required or preferred. Laboratory Assistants typically perform routine tests and procedures under the supervision of a Medical Laboratory Technician or other healthcare professional. They may also collect and process specimens, maintain equipment, and keep records.
Laboratory Assistant Skills
- Inventory management
- Maintaining lab equipment
- Sterilizing lab equipment
- Performing lab tests
- Recording lab results
- Maintaining a clean and safe work environment
- Preparing lab samples
- Labeling and storing lab samples
- Ordering lab supplies
- Tracking lab supply inventory
- Assisting with research projects
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How to become a Laboratory Assistant
A laboratory assistant is a professional who works in a laboratory setting, assisting scientists and other professionals with their work. Laboratory assistants typically have an associate's degree or higher in science, although some may have a bachelor's degree in another field and complete on-the-job training. Many laboratory assistants are certified through the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS).
To become a laboratory assistant, you will need to have at least an associate's degree in science. You may be able to complete on-the-job training if you have a bachelor's degree in another field, but this is not always necessary. You will also need to be certified through the ASCLS. To become certified, you will need to pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, equipment operation, and specimen processing.
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