Who is a Microbiologist?
Microbiologist studies the characteristics of microscopic organisms such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Most microbiologists work in laboratories and conduct fundamental research to increase scientific knowledge.
Some microbiologists collect samples of dangerous organisms from lakes and water sources in the course of their research while others stick to the lab.
Career Requirements
To build a career in this field, you need to get the required education. Aside getting a bachelors degree, you may need to advance to be able to make maximum impact in the field.
Aspiring microbiologists need lab experience; advanced research positions may require postdoctoral research work. Key skills include analytical, interpersonal, mathematical, speaking and writing skills, and being detail-oriented.
Knowledge of scientific, query, medical, and spreadsheet software is crucial to this position.
A microbiologist must be able to use a variety of specialized equipment such as electron microscopes and gas chromatographs.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Aspiring microbiology scientists are required to earn at least a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a closely related field. Microbiologists need a solid foundation of the sciences.
Microbiology majors take courses such as microbial physiology, virology, chemistry, biochemistry, and physics. Many of these courses include a laboratory component, which is important for prospective microbiologists.
Go for internship
Complete an internship. College students can work as company or laboratory interns to gain valuable experience within the field.
Become Certified
Certification, while not required for employment, could help job seekers enhance their opportunities in the workforce. Microbiologists who have completed a degree program may qualify to earn a Registered Microbiologist credential conferred by the organization’s National Registry of Certified Microbiologists (NRCM).
Earning the credential involves submitting documented educational achievement and work experience, as well as completing a qualifying examination. In order to recertify, individuals have to complete a standard amount of continuing education in a certain time period.
Earn a Doctoral Degree in Microbiology
Microbiologists who plan to conduct independent research or work in universities are required to obtain a Ph.D. in Microbiology. Students in these doctoral programs may specialize in a subfield, such as virology. Along with class work, students are required to complete laboratory research and a dissertation.
Earn Additional Certification
Doctoral-level microbiologists who seek to direct clinical laboratories may be certified in order to fulfill state licensing requirements that may be necessary for medical laboratory management.
