Microbiologist
Microbiologists study organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi and algae to make advances in environmental science, medicine and agriculture.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a microbiologist, you could:
- test patient samples to identify infections and monitor outbreaks
- develop new medical treatments using microbiology techniques
- investigate how microorganisms make antibodies, vaccines and hormones
- assess the impact of microbes in foods, crops and soils
- check the safety of manufactured food or medicines
- use microorganisms to control pollution and develop biofuels
We've identified this as a potential green job
For a microbiologist to be a green job, you could:
- research how to generate hydrogen fuel using algae and bacteria
- investigate ways to clean wastewater
- develop microorganisms that can capture greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide
Find out more about green careers
Working environment
You could work at a university or in a laboratory.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- manage a team of microbiologists and technicians
- move into commercial research and development
- teach at university
- offer consultancy services
In the NHS, you could progress to specialist, team manager and consultant.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of biology
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- maths knowledge
- science skills
- the ability to work well with others
- excellent verbal communication skills
- analytical thinking skills
- excellent written communication skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
To become a microbiologist, you could do a degree in:
- microbiology
- biology
- life sciences
- biological science
Some degree courses include an integrated master's qualification like MBiol or MSci. You'll usually have more time for independent research and they're designed to lead directly onto further postgraduate study like a PhD.
Training programme for the NHS
If you want to work in the NHS as a microbiologist, you could apply to the Scientist Training Programme (STP) after your degree.
You'll train on the job, get paid a salary and receive a master's degree at the end.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
You may be able to become a microbiologist by doing an apprenticeship, for example:
- Scientist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Research Scientist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship
These apprenticeships can take between 3 and 5 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
More Information
You might be able to get into microbiology by working your way up from a laboratory technician.
You would need to study part time for a biological science degree or degree apprenticeship while you work.
You may improve your career prospects if you can get some work experience in a lab.
You can find opportunities with the NHS, as part of your degree course or by working during the holidays. Your university can also help you find volunteering opportunities.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Microbiology Society to get professional recognition, find training opportunities and make new contacts.
Further information
You can get more advice about working in microbiology from the Microbiology Society and Health Careers.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.