What Is a Molecular Technologist? How Do You Become One?

A molecular technologist works in laboratories and studies the relationship between genetics and personal health. While labs are the main location a technologist will work, some opportunities can be found at research universities or private companies. Individuals interested in this career typically need a college degree, training and certifications. Additionally, the pay and job outlook for this career is promising — especially for entry-level professionals. 

By Mariah Flores

Every job has its own unique qualities that draw in jobseekers, but sometimes it can be hard to grasp which one may be worth your while. 

Looking to pivot into the healthcare industry? 

There’s an exciting career that you may want to explore: molecular technologist. This role is great for those who love science, health care and working in a laboratory environment.

Now, you’re probably wondering what being a molecular technologist really entails … and perhaps how to become one.

I spoke with Gregory Tsongalis, vice chair for research and the director of clinical genomics and advanced technology (CGAT) at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and professor of pathology at the Geisel School of Medicine, to learn more about this intriguing career path.

Molecular Technologists: Who They Are and What They Do

Molecular technologists work in laboratories, studying the relationship between genetics and personal health — and are sometimes referred to as “molecular biology technologists” or “molecular genetics technologists”.

These trained professionals also study “Mendelian genetics, multifactorial inheritance, DNA structure, chromosome structure, population genetics, mutation rates, ethnicity of disease and genetic mapping in a diagnostic setting,” shares The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center. 

Additionally, the institution shares that those in this career specialty generally embrace and explore the role of genetics in medicine.

“Molecular techs perform different techniques collectively referred to as molecular biology techniques. They can be doing this for research or clinical purposes,” says Tsongalis. “[On] the clinical side, they perform testing of DNA and RNA from patient samples for a variety of diseases.”

In this role, you may be asked to work in group settings, alongside pathologists, scientists or other technologists, or independently (a highly-sought after soft skill). 

Job Setting

As mentioned, molecular technologists work in labs, but that’s not the most specific setting. Clinically, most molecular technologists work either in hospital-based labs or reference labs, states Tsongalis. 

Other work environments, per Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, include: 

• Research universities, private labs and private companies

Day-to-Day

As a molecular technologist, expect your workdays to involve analyzing a patient's DNA to possibly diagnose a disease or disorder, preparing slides, operating specialized equipment, and adhering to strict safety procedures.

You never know which workday will involve a discovery and opportunities to grow as a medical professional — along with varying hours and standing for periods. 

“This role may involve exposure to hazardous chemicals, as well as long hours working on your feet. Because some labs operate 24 hours, molecular genetics technologists may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays,” warns Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. 

It’s all dependent on the lab or facility you’re working in. 

Becoming a Molecular Technologist

Get your degree. 

There’s rarely a way around it. A career in molecular technology typically requires a college degree, ranging from a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree in biology, molecular genetics, molecular biology or other related fields.

Given that this is a wonderful job for early-career professionals, a bachelor's degree is usually sufficient to obtain an entry-level position. Previous lab or research experience may also be required (seek out those internships), as well as certifications.

“There are specific training programs and certifications, but someone with a biological science degree can gain on-the-job training [and with that] experience can lead to eligibility for certification,” Tsongalis says.

If you are ever unsure about specific degree requirements, fields of knowledge/study or certifications, research current molecular technologist openings, like this one from the University of Colorado.

And some advice from our expert: Talk to lab professionals, including lab directors and other technologists. 

Pay and Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), clinical laboratory technologists and technicians earned a median annual salary of $57,800 in 2021. 

The employment of such professionals is projected to grow by 7 percent (from 2021 to 2031), This percentage is about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 25,600 openings are projected each year, over the decade period (2021-2031). That said, in the face of economic uncertainty, molecular technologists are provided some job stability.  

When asked about the future of this field, Tsongalis exudes optimism, stating, “It is an exciting time in molecular diagnostics and much more to come.”

If you’re ready for a “fascinating, fast-paced career that has hard funding from institutions”, being a molecular technologist could be your next best career move.

Top Takeaways 

Do you know what being a molecular technologist looks like? Here’s a glimpse.

• Molecular technologists work in laboratories, studying the relationship between genetics and personal health.
• Most molecular technologist positions require a college degree, training and/or certification. 
• Bachelor’s degrees are typically sufficient for entry-level positions.
• As for pay, BLS found that clinical laboratory technologists and technicians earned a median annual salary of $57,800 in 2021.
• Job projections from 2021 to 2031 from BLS are as fast as average, at 7 percent.