Is being a pathologist a good fit for you?
Finds out what is causing disease by studying body tissue, fluids and organs, using lab tests.
What the work involves
- Examines tiny samples under a microscope to find diseases and other abnormalities.
- Diagnoses diseases and studies medical conditions using lab methods on tissue, cells, blood chemistry and genes.
- Writes reports summarising analyses, results and conclusions.
- Tells surgeons and other doctors what the lab findings show.
The interests that suit it
People in this work tend to be curious, hands-on and organising. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.
What it tends to reward
Compared with other work, this job stands out for:
- Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.
- Independence. Trusted to decide how the work gets done.
- Achievement. Progress, recognition, ambitious goals.
How much training it needs
Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.
Find out if it fits you
Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a pathologist is one of yours.
Free. About 15 minutes. No account.