How do I Become a Lab Assistant?

A laboratory assistant, also known as a lab assistant, is a person who helps in a laboratory. Lab assistants, in general, prepare specimens for testing, perform specialized tests, and maintain various types of lab equipment. Lab assistants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The assistant’s responsibilities may vary depending on his or her specialty. Medical laboratories in hospitals and doctor’s offices, research schools and organizations, and private laboratories all employ laboratory assistants.

To work as a lab assistant, a person must complete his or her high school education. Obtaining a high school diploma is usually the first step in pursuing this popular career path. The next step after high school graduation is to enroll in a degree program. Although some people with a high school diploma may be able to find entry-level laboratory jobs, most employers will require more extensive education. Individuals interested in this field typically earn an associate’s degree, though some pursue a bachelor’s degree.

People who want to work as a lab assistant usually major in science. Chemistry, microbiology, biology, and hematology are some of the most popular majors. A degree program in medical technology or a closely related subject could also be pursued. For lab assistant training, many community and technical colleges offer two-year degree programs. Some people prefer to enroll in a larger college or university and earn a bachelor’s degree.

A person interested in working as a laboratory assistant must also decide which type of assistant he or she wants to be. In most cases, a medical lab assistant works in a doctor’s office or a hospital. The majority of their days are spent analyzing blood tests, urine tests, and other types of medical tests. Some people choose to work as a research lab assistant, which requires them to work under the supervision of a research scientist. Workers in this field may keep extensive data records, preserve and test tissue samples, perform dissections, and write research summary reports.

Inquire at hospitals, outpatient facilities, and doctor’s offices if you want to work as a laboratory assistant in the medical field. If a person is interested in working as a research assistant in a lab, he or she should inquire directly with local colleges and universities’ research departments. The prerequisites and requirements for a laboratory assistant will vary depending on the employer. Some employers will hire someone with a high school diploma and provide on-the-job training as a lab assistant, but most will require at least an associate’s degree. Certain employers may also require certification or a license.