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Female pathologist checks a sample under a microscope

Pathologist

Pathologists identify the cause and processes of disease and illness by examining changes in body tissue and in blood and other body fluids, and conduct tests on samples of tissues, blood and body secretions.

Overview

Pathologists identify the cause and processes of disease and illness by examining changes in body tissue and in blood and other body fluids, and conduct tests on samples of tissues, blood and body secretions.

Day-to-day

  • conducts tests on body samples to determine nature, stage of development and possible source of illness
  • studies effects of selected drugs on diseased organisms to find effective methods for treating specific patients
  • performs autopsies
  • may apply scientific knowledge and skills to investigate crimes by analysis physical and biological evidence.

Considerations

  • stressful.

Occupation snapshot
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To become a Pathologist

  • You need to be a qualified Medical Practitioner and then complete further training with the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia to specialise as a Pathologist.

    Find a Bachelor of Medicine

  • Registration with the Medical Board of Australia is required.

Skills

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