Clinical laboratory scientists, or medical technologists, perform the tests that help determine the causes and cures of diseases by using reagents, chemicals, and complex instruments to test blood, body fluids, and tissues. Because the tests performed are so vital in medical treatment, the clinical laboratory scientist must know not only how to perform these tests with scientific precision and accuracy, but must be well educated in the underlying scientific priniciples.

In addition to performing laboratory tests using the latest biomedical technology, CLS professionals also assist to interpret test results in conjunction with patient information, and communicate their meaning to other healthcare team members. They monitor quality, research and develop new tests and methods, and supervise personnel. The principle areas of practice in the laboratory are chemistry, hematology, microbiology, urinalysis, immunohematology and immunology. Career opportunities exist in hospital, clinic and private laboratories, research, public health, sales and marketing, consulting, health administration and education.

Students interested in pursuing clinical laboratory science should have an interest and aptitude in the sciences, particularly chemistry and biology. Laboratory work plays a vital role in the daily routine of the clinical laboratory scientist and, while direct patient contact is limited, these individuals enjoy being a part of the support staff that provides the physician with information crucial to the diagnosis of the patient's medical problem. Students who become certified Clinical Laboratory Scientists or Medical Technologists find employment throughout the United States. According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics , "employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through 2014, as the volume of lab tests continues to increase." Mean annual earnings is $48,600 (www.bls.gov; "National Occupational Wage Estimates", May 2005).