The role of a Laboratory Assistant involves many exciting responsibilities, where each day is different and you are also presented with numerous opportunities to continually learn in your working environment.
The role of the laboratory assistant is critical in the diagnosis of diseases and infections through laboratory testing, and you will assist the physician in diagnosing 70-80% of patients. Depending on the type of lab the assistant is working at, their typical everyday tasks range from the following:
- Receiving, sorting, checking, matching, and examining various specimens. On any given day, the lab assistant may be asked to match pathology samples to the patient, label surgical specimens, or dissect a sample of a stomach lining.
- This is a very hands-on role where no two days will feel the same and where you will have the freedom to work on many diverse and stimulating projects.
- To carry out the requested laboratory tests, the professionals use complex and sophisticated biomedical instrumentation and technology. When making use of this equipment, the lab assistant needs to ensure that all devices are well-maintained and kept clean and sterile.
- The core objective of the laboratory assistant is to assist the laboratory manager in the correct maintenance of varying specimens promptly.
Laboratory assistant work options
When it comes to the work schedule of a lab assistant, there are plenty of options available to you. Depending on the industry’s current requirements at any given time, there is a lot of flexibility within this role.
- You can have the option to work casual part-time hours, including weekend work.
- Most laboratories will also have the option of evening and overnight hours.
Your work environment
The work environment will be environmentally controlled and protective gear must be worn when working with potentially infectious materials. While working in a pathology laboratory, the lab assistant must assist the pathologist by preparing materials and performing a wide range of basic tests in the start-up laboratory. You will also prepare and group samples so they’re ready to be tested in the microbiology laboratory.
The goal of a laboratory assistant
The main goal of laboratory assistants is to assist their colleagues, scientific officers, and physicians to find answers and solutions. The characteristics of a laboratory assistant are someone who can work independently and possesses critical thinking skills and is results-driven. It is also important to be a person who is always open to learning new skills.
If you would love to work in this role, contact us for more information about our fully accredited and interactive courses at Adept Training. We specialise in training students in a laboratory environment so that they are fully prepared for their future careers.