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Laboratory Assistants from Medical Trends allows you to target individuals who process specimens and maintain equipment for experiments and lab procedures in research laboratories. Laboratory Assistants work in a variety of settings, including science, medical and forensic. Laboratory assistants work to support other laboratory personnel such as pathologists, scientists, laboratory or medical technicians and forensics experts.

Laboratory assistants helps to prepare specimen samples for testing and analyzing. When a specimen is brought to the laboratory it's labeled with the appropriate identification. As the laboratory assistant takes a portion of the specimen for testing, he or she must ensure they label and identify the sample appropriately so test results are assigned to the correct specimen. A laboratory assistant places the sample in a test tube or on a microscope slide for testing and analysis. They conduct tests that have been ordered and records the results. Many tests conducted in a laboratory, especially in a medical lab, involve bodily fluids. These fluids must be disposed of properly in hazardous waste containers once the testing process is complete. Specimens being used in a criminal investigation must be handled and tested with care as often there is only a small specimen to work with that may eventually be introduced into the case as evidence. Many types of scientific and medical equipment are used by a laboratory assistant. Laboratory equipment is used to handle highly sensitive materials that can contain bacteria and other contaminants. When equipment is used repeatedly, it must be cleaned and sterilized after each use. The laboratory assistant will ensure that all laboratory equipment and tools are clean and in working order. If lab assistant notices that something in the laboratory isn't working properly, the laboratory assistant will schedule repair of the equipment and make sure it's delivered to the appropriate place. The testing and analysis of specimens relies heavily upon laboratory equipment being in proper working order. Because of this, checking and maintaining lab equipment and tools is an important aspect of the laboratory assistant's job.Record keeping is completed and updated by the laboratory assistant throughout the day. With each sample analysis, the laboratory assistant must enter data such as identifying information for the specimen, what type of specimen it is, the tests being conducted on the sample, and the outcome of the tests. Entering test-related data is a very important task, requiring concentration and attention to detail. One false entry can alter a medical diagnosis or cause someone to be wrongly accused of a crime. In addition to recording information about specimens, the laboratory assistant must also record when a sample arrives to the laboratory as well as leaves.

Laboratory Assistants have at least an associate's degree in Biotechnology or Biological Science or Medical Technology. Individuals can transfer their credits to a 4-year university to obtain a bachelor's degree for advanced employment opportunities. Many universities with research facilities hire individuals as entry-level Laboratory Assistants through work-study program, giving them experience while they are in school.

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