partly automated. Many chemical and immunoassay tests measuring simple chemicals or proteins and haematology tests analysing the cells in blood are performed on large and sophisticated automated analysers. The scientific and technical staff operating these analysers must have a very wide knowledge of biological science, the principles of the assays being performed, the mechanics and software of the analyser and the sometimes, subtle signs that may indicate potential problems. They must also have a sound knowledge of quality control procedures and the interpretation of QC results since maintenance of analytical quality is central to all laboratory operations. Senior scientists often assume considerable managerial responsibilities and they may have a postgraduate qualification in management as well as their scientific qualifications. This article was last reviewed on June 26, 2007.  |  This article was last modified on July 30, 2012. The review date indicates when the article was last reviewed from beginning to end to ensure that it reflects the most current science. A review may not require any modifications to the article, so the two dates may not always agree. The modified date indicates that one or more changes were made to the article. Such changes may or may not result from a full review of the article, so the two dates may not always agree.