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Microbiologist

Do you want to become a Microbiologist? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Microbiologists study micro-organisms, ie organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Clinical microbiologists study all categories of micro-organisms that are clinically significant, ie have a potential impact on health. Research microbiologists usually specialise in one particular field of work after gaining a general knowledge of microbiology.

Microbiologists are likely to be involved in:

• isolating and identifying micro-organisms that cause disease
• monitoring, identifying and helping to control infectious diseases
• clinical trials of new antimicrobial agents (antibiotics)
• investigating potential uses of micro-organisms to produce vaccines.

Research and industrial microbiologists mainly work 37 hours a week, 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. Clinical microbiologists generally work around 37.5 hours a week, on a shift rota system covering 24 hours a day. They could work in laboratories, factories or out in the field.

Salaries range from around £16,000 to £62,312 a year.

Microbiologists should:

• be very good at science
• have an enquiring mind
• think clearly and logically
• be good at problem solving
• work accurately and pay great attention to detail.

Microbiologists may work within NHS or private hospitals, in industry, government departments, pharmaceutical companies or private research organisations. There are 550 bioscience companies, employing more than 40,000 people, many of whom are microbiologists. Jobs are, on the whole, widespread, although many of the opportunities are in the South East.

A degree is often essential, and some entrants have a postgraduate qualification. An HNC/HND is acceptable for some jobs. For a degree in microbiology, applicants generally need at least three A levels/three or four H grades, including biology and preferably chemistry, and five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) including two sciences, English and maths.

All microbiologists are given continuing on-the-job training to learn new laboratory techniques, and to keep up to date in their specialist area. They may also study for postgraduate qualifications or higher degrees, or take exams for membership or fellowship of a professional body.

Many take on supervisory and management responsibilities as their careers progress.

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