Microbiologist study living organisms that are invisible to the naked eye, such as bacteria and fungi. Although viruses are not living, they are also studied by microbiologists.
Minimum education – Bachelor’s Degree (B.A. or B.S.)
Coursework typical while obtaining degree varies depending on expected job.
$20,000 - $100,000 per year
Beginners with bachelor’s degree: $20,000 (increase with experience)
Beginners with doctoral degree: $40,000 (increase with experience)
Median Salary for beginning microbiologist with Ph.D.: $38,000
After five to eight years: $70,000
More than eight years: $80,000
Hospital/Clinical Laboratories: Work to identify disease-causing bacteria that affect or could potentially affect patients. Also assist in preventing the spread of disease by containing and treating it.
Food Industry: They work with the food supply that is later distributed to stories.
Environmental: Study how organisms function and react in the environment.
Research Laboratories: Study and test bacteria and other organisms in controlled environments to better understand them.
Teaching: Lecturing at community colleges and universities.