What is a scientist who specializes in the study of cells called?

A scientist who specializes in the study of cells is called a cytologist.

Cytologists examine how cells are structured, how they function, how they reproduce, and how they interact with their surroundings. Their work can involve microscopy, cell culture, staining techniques, and molecular methods. Because every living organism is made of cells, cytology connects closely with genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and medicine.

The word comes from Greek roots meaning “cell” and “study.” Cytology is often used broadly for cell biology, while cytopathology is the medical study of cells to detect disease. A cytopathologist or medical cytologist may examine samples from a Pap test, a fluid aspiration, or a tumor to look for cancerous or precancerous changes.

A common mix-up is confusing a cytologist with a histologist. Histologists study tissues—organized groups of cells—whereas cytologists focus primarily on individual cells or small cellular samples. In modern biology, the term cell biologist is also widely used for researchers studying cellular processes in laboratory settings.