Also called: Variant Curator, Genomic Analyst
Decides whether a DNA change found in a patient is harmful, harmless, or unknown.
Reviews a list of genetic variants from a patient's test, searches databases and research papers, and writes a report the doctor will use. Debates tough cases with colleagues in a weekly sign-out meeting.
Estimate.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Master's degree, about 6 years after high school. Master's or PhD in genetics; some genetic counselors do this.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $60k – $150k.
Majors to look at: Genetics, Molecular Biology.
Growing much faster than average (about 8% over 10 years). Estimate; genetic testing volume is rising.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. AI tools now classify most DNA variants and draft reports; fewer curators are needed, mostly to review hard cases and sign off.
Classes: AP Biology, Statistics, English composition.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1029.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.