MLS

 A career in MLS

Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) play an important, often unrecognised role in disease diagnosis and monitoring of patient treatment.  They are responsible for the testing of most samples sent to the diagnostic laboratory by medical practitioners.  Laboratory results produced by MLS are used by medical staff in the diagnosis of disorders in 70-80% of all patient cases.  This is why a four year university degree is required before you can practise as a MLS in New Zealand.

MLS develop, adapt and apply scientific method to the sample analysis process ensuring high standards of laboratory quality assurance and public confidence in the laboratory results.  MLS are employed mainly in hospital and community pathology laboratories, medical research and animal health laboratories.  Other career options include forensic science, the laboratory supply business, teaching and research in the sciences.   

Within the profession of MLS there are a number of sub-specialties which are referred to as disciplines;