What Microbiologists Do
Microbiologists conduct research projects to study microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. With these research projects, they perform experiments to understand how the microorganisms grow and interact with the environment. The experiments they run can be helpful for a variety of things such as treating illnesses or creating better biofuels. Another part of being a microbiologist is being able to present the results of their research to other scientists through reports and presentations.
There are many different types of microbiologists. A few of these specialties include: bacteriologists, industrial microbiologists, mycologists, and virologists. Bacteriologists study bacteria and how it positively and negatively affects plants, animals, and humans. Industrial microbiologists study how microbiology relates to industrial production processes. For example, they may study how industrial waste impacts ecosystems. Mycologists study fungi and ways it can be used to benefit society. Virologists examine the properties of viruses and how they affect organisms.
How to Become a Microbiologist
To become a microbiologist, the first step is obtaining a bachelor's degree in a field such as microbiology or cell biology. According to Universities.com, the best microbiology colleges are the University of California-Berkeley, Duke University, and Vanderbilt University. Another important aspect of becoming a microbiologist is gaining research experience. A good way to gain laboratory experience is through internships. If a microbiologist wishes to conduct independent research, they will most likely need to continue their education and receive a PhD.
Along with gaining a bachelor's degree at minimum, it is important for microbiologists to have certain skills including: observation skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills, and the ability to persevere.
Pay and Job Outlook for Microbiologists
As stated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for microbiologists is $75,650 as of 2019. This varies depending on their place of employment as microbiologists working for the federal government have an average salary of $106,670 while those working for colleges have an average salary of $56,850.
In terms of job outlook, the amount of microbiologists employed between 2018 and 2028 is expected to grow five percent. One reason for the expected growth of this career field is because more microbiologists will be needed to create vaccines and antibiotics. Another reason that more microbiologists will be employed is because they are needed in more areas than just medicine. Microbiologists are needed to work for chemical companies, research alternative energy, and genetically engineer crops.
Sources
Information from:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Microbiologists,
on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm (visited August 09, 2020).
@jinxiaodao1555, I., @alexqmaclin, I., @nachofuu, I., @deb_fancylife, I., & @jenstarr4, I. (n.d.). Best Colleges with Microbiology Degrees. Retrieved August 31, 2020, from https://www.universities.com/programs/microbiology-degrees
Picture from:
Verma, S. (2020, February 16). Career options for microbiologists. Retrieved August 31, 2020, from https://fridaymagazine.ae/life-culture/ask-the-experts/career-options-for-microbiologists-1.2306700