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SCIENCE & RESEARCH

Microbiologist

Studying the Invisible Life Around Us

Microbiologist

Microbiologists study bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and other microscopic organisms. Their work helps explain infection, food safety, environmental processes and useful biological production.

Key Outcomes

What this career leads to

  • Disease understanding
  • Safer food and water
  • Better laboratory control
  • Useful microbial products

What They Do

On the job

  • Collect, culture and identify microorganisms
  • Investigate microbial growth and behaviour
  • Test the effects of treatments or environmental conditions
  • Record, analyse and communicate laboratory findings

Where They Work

Typical workplaces

  • Clinical and public-health laboratories
  • Food and beverage companies
  • Pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms
  • Water and environmental agencies
  • Universities and research centres
  • Quality-control laboratories

Core Skills

What it takes

  • Aseptic laboratory technique
  • Microscopy and molecular methods
  • Critical analysis
  • Biosafety and accurate documentation

Areas of Application

Where this knowledge shows up

  • Medical microbiology
  • Food and dairy microbiology
  • Environmental microbiology
  • Industrial microbiology
  • Public-health surveillance

Education & Entry Path

The learning route

A degree in microbiology, biological sciences or medical laboratory science is typical. Clinical, specialist and research positions may require registration or postgraduate training.

Career Scope

The long view

Microbiologists can contribute to diagnostics, infection control, quality assurance, environmental monitoring, food production, biotechnology, teaching and research.

Related Careers

Kindred paths to explore

Explore Scientists’ Contribution

The discoveries behind this field