The development technologist track is designed for technically skilled technologists with several years of experience in the clinical laboratories. These technologists generally have honed their skills on routine diagnostic assays and are able to use those skills as a development technologist. In the Development Track, technologists spend their time developing new tests using either commercially available kits or Mayo Clinic-developed assays. They also develop and apply new technologies to existing tests. Individuals with the Development Track are also involved in writing scientific papers and presenting findings at local and national scientific meetings.

The technical specialist track has been developed to encourage individuals to utilize their knowledge and expertise in such areas as computer systems, education, instrumentation, physician extenders, and quality assurance.

Professional opportunities in this track: Technical Specialist I and II and Technical Specialist Coordinator III.

The education track is designed for those individuals who have developed strong teaching and training skills in the clinical laboratories. In the Education Track, these specialists teach students, train employees, and design schedules and curriculum.

Professional opportunities in this track: Education Specialist I and II and Education Program Coordinator.

The quality track is designed for individuals with outstanding attention to detail, record keeping, and analytical skills. Our quality specialists lead individual laboratory audits and inspections by national accrediting agencies.

Professional opportunities in this track: Quality Specialist I and II.

The management track is designed for those individuals who have developed strong skills at the bench and are interested in the "big picture" of leading a diagnostic laboratory. Individuals within this track develop a new set of skills, including skills that allow them to bridge the gap between the technical and the business sides of laboratory testing.