Pathology Week begins on Monday and invites college students to attend a series of free pathology lab tours to see whether it is something they would want to pursue.

University of Tasmania haematology senior lecturer Murray Adams said pathologists were a crucial part of the health system.

``They provide the answers,'' Mr Adams said.

``There are reports that there will be a critical shortage in five to 10 years, particularly as senior scientists move into retirement. There exists an opportunity for up and coming students to move up quite rapidly.''

Biomedical science honours student Christ Atkinson said he became fascinated with blood after attending similar pathology introduction sessions.

``When I was in college I was invited to do the taster day,'' Mr Atkinson said. ``I didn't know much about blood (but) figured I should so this because I found it enjoyable.''

Mr Atkinson said he was still deciding whether he wanted to work in pathology research, which would include discovering new treatments and ways to diagnose disease.

Factfile

WHAT: University of Tasmania Pathology Week tours.

WHEN: March 9, March 12 and March 16 at 3pm.

WHERE: Launceston Pathology, and Pathology Department Launceston General Hospital.

REGISTER: www.utas.edu.au at School of Human Life Sciences.