How To Become A Microbiologist.
Microbiologist study organisms that can cause disease, promote environmental balance, spur drug creation and find new sources of food. Careers in microbiology span industries including environment and agriculture, with an array of education, experience and professional requirements.
Skills Requirements.
For a successful career in microbiology, scientists have to have learning requirements. Microbiologists often work on detailed research projects. For people who are working in a scientific environment, it is important to show the ability to work independently and as team. Excellent communication skills, written and verbal, are required for projects and team assignments. In the private industry, microbiologists are expected to possess business acumen with an understanding of issues, marketing and management.
Education Requirements.
Microbiologists are required to complete a four-year bachelor's degree program from an authorized college or university for any position. Major fields of study for a bachelor's degree will likely include:
Certification.
Certification is not required for all positions in microbiology. For advanced positions at the doctoral level, there are three types of certification required.
Skills Requirements.
For a successful career in microbiology, scientists have to have learning requirements. Microbiologists often work on detailed research projects. For people who are working in a scientific environment, it is important to show the ability to work independently and as team. Excellent communication skills, written and verbal, are required for projects and team assignments. In the private industry, microbiologists are expected to possess business acumen with an understanding of issues, marketing and management.
Education Requirements.
Microbiologists are required to complete a four-year bachelor's degree program from an authorized college or university for any position. Major fields of study for a bachelor's degree will likely include:
- microbiology
- biology or chemistry with semester coursework demonstrating microbiology
- microorganism study.
Certification.
Certification is not required for all positions in microbiology. For advanced positions at the doctoral level, there are three types of certification required.
- The American Board of Medical Microbiology (ABMM) certifies doctoral-level microbiologists seeking to direct public health or clinical microbiology laboratories.
- The American Board of Medical Laboratory Immunology (ABMLI) certifies immunologists who wish to direct laboratories practicing laboratory immunology.
- The National Registry of Certified Microbiologists (NRCM) certifies professional microbiologists in biological safety, food, pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
