Pathologists

Diagnose presence and stage of diseases using laboratory techniques and patient specimens. Study the nature, cause, and development of diseases. May perform autopsies.

Median Annual Wage: $187,200

Education: Post-doctoral training (56%); Doctoral degree (42%); Professional degree (1%)

Projected Growth: Faster than average (15% to 21%)

Related Job Titles: Forensic Pathologist; Pathologist; Pathology Laboratory Director; Attending Pathologist; Anatomic Pathologist; Associate Pathologist; Cytopathologist; Dermatopathologist; Oral Pathologist

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Pathologists.

More Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Careers

  • Diagnose diseases or study medical conditions using techniques such as gross pathology, histology, cytology, cytopathology, clinical chemistry, immunology, flow cytometry, and molecular biology.
  • Write pathology reports summarizing analyses, results, and conclusions.
  • Identify the etiology, pathogenesis, morphological change, and clinical significance of diseases.
  • Analyze and interpret results from tests such as microbial or parasite tests, urine analyses, hormonal assays, fine needle aspirations (FNAs), and polymerase chain reactions (PCRs).
  • Communicate pathologic findings to surgeons or other physicians.
  • Read current literature, talk with colleagues, or participate in professional organizations or conferences to keep abreast of developments in pathology.
  • Consult with physicians about ordering and interpreting tests or providing treatments.
  • Plan and supervise the work of the pathology staff, residents or visiting pathologists.
  • Review cases by analyzing autopsies, laboratory findings, or case investigation reports.
  • Educate physicians, students, and other personnel in medical laboratory professions such as medical technology, cytotechnology, and histotechnology.
  • Manage medical laboratories.
  • Develop or adopt new tests or instruments to improve diagnosis of diseases.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Pathologists.

  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
  • Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Pathologists.

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