Microbiologist
A microbiologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses, which are typically only visible through microscopes. Their work involves researching the structure, development, and characteristics of these organisms, as well as their interactions with higher organisms like plants and animals. Microbiologists typically work in laboratories equipped with advanced scientific tools, spending significant time conducting experiments, analyzing data, and reporting findings. Some microbiologists also engage in fieldwork to collect samples from various environments.
To pursue a career in microbiology, individuals usually need a bachelor's degree, although many opt for a doctorate to qualify for advanced positions or teaching roles at universities. The field is expanding, with a growing demand for microbiologists in sectors like healthcare, biotechnology, and environmental science. Microbiologists may also explore diverse career paths, including roles in public policy, science writing, or medical fields. Overall, the profession plays a critical role in understanding and addressing issues related to health, disease, and the environment.
Microbiologist
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources, Health Science, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Science, research and analysis, observation, microbiology, microorganisms, biotechnology
Earnings (Yearly Median): $85,470 per year $41.09 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 7% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Microbiologists study organisms such as bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses, which are only visible with the aid of microscopes. They research and analyze the structure, development, and other characteristics of these organisms using sophisticated scientific technology and equipment. Microbiologists observe and record the ways in which microorganisms influence the lives of higher organisms, such as plants and animals. They identify microscopic organisms’ responses to environmental stimuli and analyze reproductive and other physiological processes.
Work Environment. Microbiologists spend the majority of their time in the laboratory, conducting research using a wide array of microscopes and other analytical equipment. These environments are clean, bright, and well-ventilated. Many microbiologists spend some working hours outdoors collecting samples from water sources, plant life, and other resources. Fieldwork may require travel to remote locations, hiking over rugged terrain, or working in difficult weather conditions. Microbiologists who hold positions at universities and colleges split their time between the classroom, the laboratory, and the office. Microbiologists usually work a regular forty-hour week, with extra hours typically required only when deadlines approach or an emergency occurs.
Occupation Interest. Microbiologists study the smallest organisms, an area of science that is currently evolving at a fast pace. New and exciting discoveries in the areas of clinical microbiology and biotechnology are common. Microbiologists are sometimes asked by government agencies or private companies and organizations to provide insight into the spread of germs and diseases. Because the applications of microbiology span many areas, there is a wide range of subfields in which microbiologists may choose to specialize.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Microbiologists work primarily in laboratories, using many different types of research and analytical equipment to formulate hypotheses and study the different characteristics of particular microorganisms. They use advanced scientific technology to study algae, fungi, and bacteria or virus specimens. Conducting in-depth research into the structure, behavior, physiology, and environments of microorganisms, these scientists gather comprehensive data on their subject matter, information that is then entered into scientific databases. This work may include managing the activities of lab technicians, other scientists, and lab assistants.
Microbiologists write technical reports, academic papers, and books based on their findings and accumulated data. Some of these reports are submitted to government agencies to help formulate appropriate public policies and regulations or to assist medical researchers and doctors in isolating and delivering effective treatments for certain diseases. Research results and writings are shared with other biologists, regardless of publication. Even if the findings are not published in an academic journal, the microbiologists who conducted the research still communicate and share insights on how to direct future research. Some research results are published in scientific journals, allowing scientists throughout the world to share their thoughts on how the newly discovered information affects the overall body of knowledge on a subject.
When they are not in the laboratory, many microbiologists teach at colleges and universities. They provide classroom instruction to undergraduate and graduate students, conduct lectures, host lab sessions, and advise students on independent projects. Many microbiologists also present papers and theories at academic conferences and departmental meetings.
Microbiologists with a broader range of professional skills sometimes use their scientific backgrounds to pursue interests in other fields. Other potential career opportunities for microbiologists who take this approach include working as infectious disease physicians, veterinarians, business analysts, patent lawyers, public policy professionals, science education and outreach professionals, or science writers.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Microbiologists work primarily in laboratories operated by the federal government, public and private universities, and private organizations and foundations. They may also conduct field research in remote locations and/or natural sources such as lakes and reservoirs.
Because a clean, sterile environment is necessary to ensure the validity of research results, laboratories have strict rules governing personal hygiene, surface cleanliness, clothing, and air quality. Despite these protocols, some microbiologists may experience a slight risk of exposure to dangerous chemicals or germs.
Human Environment. Depending on their areas of expertise, microbiologists interact and collaborate with a wide range of individuals. Among those with whom microbiologists work are laboratory technicians, lab assistants and interns, environmental scientists, medical doctors and researchers, government officials, and university students and professors.
Technological Environment. Microbiologists use a wide range of tools and technology to complete their work. Their equipment may include electron and light microscopes, sampling tools and equipment, centrifuges, infrared spectrometers, heating blocks, incubators, slides and test tubes, microbiology analyzers, and sterilization equipment. Additionally, they must use medical database systems, analytical software like BD Biosciences CellQuest or Verity Software House ModFit LT, database user interface and query software like Microsoft Access, and general office software (including presentation programs like Microsoft PowerPoint).
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students who wish to become microbiologists should take biology, chemistry, physics, physiology, and other natural sciences. Computer science training is also helpful, as are mathematics courses such as algebra, calculus, and statistics. English and other classes that teach presentation and communication skills are highly useful.
Postsecondary. Some entry-level positions in applied research and product development only require a bachelor’s degree, but in general, microbiologists should obtain a doctorate in their field. The doctoral degree qualifies them to teach at the college level and to obtain senior-level microbiology positions in research settings. Such educational training includes work in the classroom, the field, and the laboratory. Those who choose to pursue a subfield of microbiology may need additional or specialized training. For instance, some microbiologists complete medical school and obtain a doctor of medicine degree that focuses on clinical microbiology.
Experts expected the need for microbiologists to increase because pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are developing new medications with the aid of microorganisms.
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Bibliography
"Careers in Microbiology and the Microbial Sciences." American Society for Microbiology, 12 Nov. 2019, asm.org/articles/2018/november/careers-in-microbiology-and-the-microbial-sciences. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.
"Microbiologists." My Next Move, 2024, www.mynextmove.org/profile/summary/19-1022.00. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.
"Microbiologists." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.