Microbiologists

Microbiologists are scientists who study living things that cannot be seen with the naked eye, such as bacteria, fungi, protozoans, and viruses, as well as human and animal cells. They examine the effects these microorganisms and infectious agents have on people, animals, plants, and the environment. They are interested in learning about microorganisms that cause diseases, how microorganisms can be used to treat and prevent diseases, and ways microorganisms can be used in developing products. Microbiologists are a subspecialty of biological scientists. Approximately 21,700 microbiologists are employed in the United States.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree

Certification/License

Recommended

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average

Personality Traits

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Technical

Career Ladder

Laboratory Director, or Professor, or Independent Consultant

Microbiologist

Research Assistant