Microbiologists
Overview
Microbiologists are scientists who study tiny organisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi that you can't see without a microscope. They conduct research projects in modern laboratories using advanced equipment to develop new medicines, improve sterilization methods, and understand how microorganisms affect our health and environment. These scientists work in teams, supervising lab technicians, publishing their discoveries in scientific journals, and presenting their findings to other researchers and the public. A career in microbiology typically requires a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field, with many positions requiring advanced degrees for research roles.
Did you know?
Most competitive positions in American laboratories and research institutions require a master's or doctoral degree, making advanced education essential for career advancement.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$77,066.43 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Equipment Maintenance
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
- Observe action of microorganisms upon living tissues of plants, higher animals, and other microorganisms, and on dead organic matter.
- Use a variety of specialized equipment, such as electron microscopes, gas and high-pressure liquid chromatographs, electrophoresis units, thermocyclers, fluorescence-activated cell sorters, and phosphorimagers.
- Develop new products and procedures for sterilization, food and pharmaceutical supply preservation, or microbial contamination detection.
- Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
- Study the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues, cells, pathogens, and toxins.
- Research use of bacteria and microorganisms to develop vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, grain alcohol, sugars, and polymers.
- Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
- Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
- Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
- Conduct chemical analyses of substances such as acids, alcohols, and enzymes.
- Prepare technical reports and recommendations, based upon research outcomes.
- Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
- Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant, and animal health.
Career Considerations
Advanced Education Requirements
Most competitive positions in American laboratories and research institutions require a master's or doctoral degree, making advanced education essential for career advancement.
Diverse Employment Sectors
American microbiologists can work across various industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, government agencies like the CDC, and academic research institutions, offering multiple career pathways.
Continuous Learning and Specialization
The rapidly evolving field requires staying current with new technologies, techniques, and research developments to remain competitive in the American job market.