Education
Fact-checked

At PracticalAdultInsights, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Microbiologist?

Garry Crystal
Garry Crystal

A microbiologist is a scientist who studies organisms called microbes, which can take the form of bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This person is trained to study these microbes in depth. He or she must be familiar with the microbes' environments, how they live, and the effect they have on the world around them.

As microbes are diverse, microbiologists tend to have their own specific area of study, often focused on a specific type of microbe. Those who study only bacteria are called bacteriologists, for example, while those who study viruses are known as virologists.

Microbiologists may gather water samples to test for harmful microorganisms.
Microbiologists may gather water samples to test for harmful microorganisms.

One of the main research aims of these professionals is to find out how microbes affect the world around them. Certain types of microbes are harmful to humans, and a microbiologist may study the reasons for this, along with ways to prevent infection in humans. An immunologist studies how the body defends itself against certain microbes.

Throughout history, many fatal diseases have been eradicated thanks to the help of these experts. By learning how microbes live, reproduce, and attack humans, it is easier to stop them. Many microbes are capable of causing new diseases, as the environment is constantly changing. Epidemiologists are trained to study outbreaks of disease and to determine their causes and how they can be prevented in the future.

Microbiologists work with organisms too small to be visible with the naked eye.
Microbiologists work with organisms too small to be visible with the naked eye.

The microbiologist is mainly based in the laboratory, where he or she may work in many specialized areas. These individuals can be concerned with medicine, healthcare, agriculture, or the food industry. The military also employs them as well, although biological warfare development and defense is a controversial field employed by many governments around the world.

Microbiologist study Listeria bacteria in a Petri dishes.
Microbiologist study Listeria bacteria in a Petri dishes.

The day-to-day work in this field is often varied, and a wide variety of tests are used when researching microbes. As well as testing pure culture samples, the microbiologist must also work with highly sophisticated computer software when undertaking research. This software is used to track the development of the microbes and to calculate and theorize on the growth and development of specific microbes in the environment.

Microbiologists work in a research lab.
Microbiologists work in a research lab.

Microbiology is a very important branch of science. People who work in the field test the food that people eat and makes the medicine they take when ill. They help prevent nations from being wiped out by disease and make sure that washing powder is safe for human skin. It takes years of dedicated training to become a microbiologist, and up-to-date research and learning are essential. Governments spend billions of dollars each year to ensure that their vital microbiology divisions are second to none.

Discussion Comments

Alchemy

@ Sputnik- A microbiologist career almost always requires that one have at least a Master’s degree to work in the field. The same goes for all other specialized fields of biology. Most Bachelor's programs will only include biology, and some of the broader areas of the science like botany, ecology, or zoology. A bachelor’s degree will not get a person much further than the title of research assistant, and finding meaningful work in the field may prove to be hard.

Even with a Master's degree, a microbiologist will not be able to do independent research. A microbiologist with a Master's can find work as a research assistant, but to be an independent researcher, a PhD is necessary. Microbiology is such a specialized and technical field that one must be committed to the field for the long haul to be successful.

sputnik

To prepare for a microbiology profession, one needs to complete a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology. Working in a laboratory for hands on experience is also very beneficial.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Microbiologists may gather water samples to test for harmful microorganisms.
      By: cubephoto
      Microbiologists may gather water samples to test for harmful microorganisms.
    • Microbiologists work with organisms too small to be visible with the naked eye.
      By: Vasiliy Koval
      Microbiologists work with organisms too small to be visible with the naked eye.
    • Microbiologist study Listeria bacteria in a Petri dishes.
      By: ggw
      Microbiologist study Listeria bacteria in a Petri dishes.
    • Microbiologists work in a research lab.
      By: KaYann
      Microbiologists work in a research lab.
    • Microbiologists investigate how microbes affect the world around them.
      By: kasto
      Microbiologists investigate how microbes affect the world around them.