M icrobiology

MicrobiologyCorinne FigarraCMT 3rd hour

Description•A microbiologist is someone who investigates and studies things in the field of microbiology.

Primary Responsibilities • Plan and conduct complex research

projects.• Supervise biological technicians and

evaluate the accuracy of their results.• Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria

or other microorganisms.• Monitor the effect of microorganisms on

plants, animals, other microorganisms, and the environment.• Prepare technical reports and present

them to other scientists.

Employment + job outlook/growthMicrobiology is found in an indoor setting mostly in research lab facilities. They work full time and keep regular hours.U.S. Department of Labor’s employment outlook for microbiology is average.

Educational preparationsA Bachelors degree in microbiology or a closely related field is needed for entry level microbiologist jobs. A P.H.D is typically needed to carry out independent research.

Salary RangeThe median annual wage of microbiologists was $65,920 in May 2010. The top 10 percent earned more than $115,720.

Career Path• Temporary post

doctoral research positions.• Bacteriology• Virology

Microbiologists can gain responsibilities and independence in their work as they gain experience and more education.

Positive Features

•Salary is decent • It is interesting work• Jobs are available

Negative Features• Long work hours• School, many years of education•Must have P.H.D to go independently

Related Occupations• Agricultural + Food scientists• Biochemical and biophysicists