Profession
Microbiologist
It studies microorganisms and their applications.
A microbiologist studies microscopic organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In a lab you grow cultures, run tests, analyze samples, and record results carefully, then use what you learn to diagnose infections, develop medicines, keep food and water safe, or understand how microbes affect the environment. Some microbiologists work in hospitals or public health labs, while others work in biotechnology or research, and many spend part of their time writing reports and collaborating with colleagues. Safety training is constant, because working with microorganisms requires strict procedures.
Average salary
$4,000 – $12,000
Education
5 years
Employability
85%
🎥 See what it's really like
Day in the Life: Microbiology and Virology
A professor of clinical microbiology walks through what a typical working day looks like in a pathology lab.
Inside a Clinical Microbiology Lab
The American Society for Microbiology takes you inside a clinical lab to see how microbes are identified and why it matters.
Interview with a Medical Microbiologist
A medical microbiologist describes the unpredictability of lab work and what the career is really like.
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❓ Frequently asked questions
How much does a Microbiologist professional earn?▾
Salary ranges from $4,000 – $12,000 per month, depending on specialization, region, and experience. Professionals in major cities tend to earn above the national average.
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