Microbiologist

As a microbiologist, you could:

• test patient samples to identify infections and monitor outbreaks
•  develop new medical treatments using microbiology techniques
•  investigate how microorganisms make antibodies, vaccines and hormones
•  assess the impact of microbes in foods, crops and soils
•  check the safety of manufactured food or medicines
•  use microorganisms to control pollution and develop biofuels

We've identified this as a potential green job

For a microbiologist to be a green job, you could:

• research how to generate hydrogen fuel using algae and bacteria
•  investigate ways to clean wastewater
•  develop microorganisms that can capture greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide

Find out more about green careers

• knowledge of biology
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• maths knowledge
• science skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent written communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

With experience, you could:

• manage a team of microbiologists and technicians
•  move into commercial research and development
•  teach at university
•  offer consultancy services

In the NHS, you could progress to specialist, team manager and consultant.