Microbiology job description

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In the microbiology department, the microbiologist will study bacteria, viruses, protozoa, algae and fungi, amongst other micro-organisms. Studying the molecular and cellular level, the job holder will help identify the effects of these on industry, agriculture and medicine. The majority of the work is laboratory-based, but field trips are also often organised; therefore a driving license is a bonus.
Typical work will include observing, tracking, monitoring and identifying different micro-organisms. The candidate will be required to develop new identification methods, new techniques and new products from the results of the testing. Excellent communication skills, computing skills and interpersonal skills are required due to the nature of the job, which requires the microbiologist to work with many different departments, contractors and consultants.
The ideal candidate will be educated to degree level with a degree in Microbiology or a PhD in a relevant science. The average salary for those working in microbiology labs is between £16,024 and £28,481.

Description

Microbiologists are required to study micro organisms such as parasites, bacteria, fungi, and viruses using microscopes and other equipment. They can work in pathology and diagnostic departments of some medical schools and hospitals, government agencies, industrial research and development, universities, medical and technical writing, among others. Their work is closely related to vaccine creation and sample analysis.

Microbiologists usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Carrying out experiments.
• Teaming up with other scientists.
• Tracking spread of diseases.
• Writing reports.
• Developing antibiotics.

Skills

• Having excellent science knowledge.
• Having IT skills.
• Being responsible about safety and health.
• Being methodical.
• Having good written and spoken communication abilities.
• Being accurate and proactive.
• Having high attention to details.
• Having excellent problem solving abilities.
• Being able to work with a team.
• Having leadership skills.

Education

Some Microbiologist jobs require a degree and a postgraduate qualification as a minimum for application, but there are other cases when it is just necessary to have a Higher National Certificate or a Higher National Diploma. Degrees related to this sector require five GCSE’s/S grades (A-C/1-3) and three A levels/three H grades including two sciences, Math and English as a minimum.

Another main requirement for this area is to have relevant experience in this business. There are training schemes including courses for IT developments, safety regulations, laboratory techniques, etc.

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