A microbiologist is someone who studies the growth, development, and characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi. They work in laboratories and offices, where they conduct scientific experiments and analyze the results.
Microbiologists typically do the following:
Most microbiologists work in research and development. Many conduct basic research with the aim of increasing scientific knowledge. Others conduct applied research, using knowledge from basic research to develop new products or solve particular problems. For example, microbiologists help to develop genetically engineered crops, biofuels, and ways to protect the environment.
Microbiologists use computers and a wide variety of sophisticated laboratory instruments to do their experiments and analyze the results. For example, they use powerful electron microscopes to study bacteria. They use advanced computer software to analyze the growth of microorganisms found in samples.
An increasing number of scientific research projects involve multiple disciplines, and it is common for microbiologists to work on teams with technicians and scientists in other fields. For example, microbiologists researching new drugs may work with medical scientists and biochemists to develop new medicines such as antibiotics and vaccines. As another example, microbiologists in medical diagnostic laboratories work alongside physicians, nurses, medical laboratory technologists and technicians and other health professionals to help prevent, treat, and cure diseases.
Microbiologists typically work in laboratories and offices, where they conduct experiments and analyze results. Those who work with dangerous organisms must follow strict safety procedures to avoid contamination. Most microbiologists work full time and keep regular hours.
Basic researchers usually choose the focus of their research. Applied researchers who work for companies spend more time working on products that the company can sell. They are often under pressure to meet deadlines and follow specifications for grants to fund their research. They may face competition for research grants.
A person working as a Microbiologist in Kenya typically earns around KSH337,000 per month. Salaries range from KSH155,000 (lowest) to KSH535,000 (highest).
Microbiologists will be needed to research and develop new medicines and treatments, such as vaccines and antibiotics. In addition, microbiologists will be needed to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies develop drugs that are produced with the aid of microorganisms.
Aside from improving health, other areas of research and development are expected to provide employment growth for microbiologists. Many companies, from food producers to chemical companies, will need microbiologists to ensure product quality and production efficiency. Efforts to find more clean sources of energy will involve microbiologists, such as mycologists and industrial microbiologists, who research and develop alternative energy sources such as biofuels and biomass. In agriculture, microbiologists will be needed to help develop genetically engineered crops that provide greater yields or require less pesticide and fertilizer. Finally, efforts to discover new and improved ways to preserve the environment and safeguard public health also will make use of microbiologists.
Microbiologists need at least a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a closely related field such as biochemistry or cell biology. Many colleges and universities offer degree programs in biological sciences, including microbiology. Most microbiology majors take introductory courses in microbial genetics and microbial physiology before taking classes in more advanced topics such as environmental microbiology and virology.
Students also must take classes in other sciences, such as biochemistry, chemistry, and physics, because it is important for microbiologists to have a broad understanding of the sciences. Courses in statistics, mathematics, and computer science are important for microbiologists because they must be able to do complex data analysis.
