Occupation Details
Microbiologists
Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Work Values
Achievement
Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
Recognition
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
Independence
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$52,500.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$80,240.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$101,220.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
990
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
1,300
+31 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
130
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.3%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
More School - Graduate or advanced degree
Experience Requirements
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
Education Requirements
Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Training Details
Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. Examples include pharmacists, lawyers, astronomers, biologists, clergy, physician assistants, and veterinarians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Achievement/Effort
Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- 8-channel electronic pipettes
- Alcohol lamps
- Anaerobic growth chambers
- Analytical balances
- Argon lasers
- Autoclaves
- Automated gram stainers
- Automated microbial identification systems
- Automatic cell sorters
- Automatic coverslipper
- Automatic pipetters
- Bacteriological incubators
- Bacticinerators
- Bioaerosol impactors
- Biological safety hoods
- Bioreactors
- Bright field light microscopes
- Bubble counters
- Charge coupled device CCD color digital cameras
- Chemical safety showers
- Colony counters
- Compound binocular light microscopes
- Conductivity meters
- Coplin jars
- Culture bottles
- Culture tubes
- Darkroom developing tanks
- Deionized DI water systems
- Deoxyribonucleic acid DNA sequencers
- Desktop centrifuges
Technology
- Codon Usage Database
- ComBase
- Computer Service & Support CLS-2000 Laboratory System
- DM2 Bills of Lading
- Database management software
- Email software
- Laboratory information management system LIMS
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- NetLims AutoLims
- Orchard Software Orchard Harvest LIS
- Protein databases
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- direct and coordinate scientific research or investigative studies
- direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
- direct implementation of new procedures, policies, or programs
- prepare vaccines, biologicals, or serums
- prepare sample for laboratory testing, analysis, or microscopy
- prepare biological specimens for examination
- maintain records, reports, or files
- prepare reports
- prepare technical reports or related documentation
- advise clients or customers
- recommend further study or action based on research data
- prepare recommendations based upon research
- advise governmental or industrial personnel
- write research or project grant proposals
- write business project or bid proposals
- develop policies, procedures, methods, or standards
- develop plans for programs or projects
- use biological testing instruments
- use microscope
- use laboratory equipment
- communicate technical information
- make presentations
- confer with scientists
- develop new products based on scientific research results
- develop scientific or mathematical hypotheses, theories, or laws
- adhere to safety procedures
- plan scientific research or investigative studies
- cultivate micro-organisms for study, testing, or medical preparations
- resolve agricultural production problems
- make decisions
- resolve engineering or science problems
- explain complex mathematical information
- write scholarly or technical research papers
- explain genetic data
- confer with research personnel
- confer with engineering, technical or manufacturing personnel
- analyze biological research, test, or analysis data
- analyze scientific research data or investigative findings
- conduct field research or investigative studies
- conduct laboratory research or experiments
- conduct standardized qualitative laboratory analyses
- conduct standardized quantitative laboratory analyses
- analyze ecosystem data
- perform statistical analysis
- forecast or predict phenomena based upon research data
- conduct analyses or tests of organic compounds
- use statistics in food research
- identify nutritional value of foods
- understand properties or composition of drugs
- understand pharmaceutical formulas
- recognize plant diseases
- recognize tree or forest plant species
- isolate and identify micro-organisms
- examine biological or other material specimens under microscope
- use computers to enter, access or retrieve data
- use relational database software
- use spreadsheet software
- use word processing or desktop publishing software
- develop or maintain databases
- develop tables depicting data
- classify plants, animals, or other natural phenomena
- use chemical testing or analysis procedures
- use hazardous materials information
- use health or sanitation standards
- follow infectious materials procedures
- use nutrition research techniques
- use plant disease control techniques
- use pollution control techniques
- use scientific research methodology
- follow safe waste disposal procedures
- use teaching techniques
- follow microbiology procedures
- use biological research techniques
- use knowledge of investigation techniques
- use mathematical or statistical methods to identify or analyze problems
- use project management techniques
- use quantitative research methods
- use library or online Internet research techniques
- record test results, test procedures, or inspection data
- collect scientific or technical data
- collect academic research data
- collect statistical data
- research human or animal disease
- study development of plants, animals, or microscopic organisms
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
- Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant, and animal health.
- Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
- Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
- Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
- Prepare technical reports and recommendations, based upon research outcomes.
- Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
- Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
- Use a variety of specialized equipment, such as electron microscopes, gas and high-pressure liquid chromatographs, electrophoresis units, thermocyclers, fluorescence-activated cell sorters, and phosphorimagers.
- Study the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues, cells, pathogens, and toxins.
- Research use of bacteria and microorganisms to develop vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, grain alcohol, sugars, and polymers.
- Develop new products and procedures for sterilization, food and pharmaceutical supply preservation, or microbial contamination detection.
- Observe action of microorganisms upon living tissues of plants, higher animals, and other microorganisms, and on dead organic matter.
- Conduct chemical analyses of substances such as acids, alcohols, and enzymes.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
2006 Summer Opportunities For Educators
From two-day workshops, to two-week fellowships, to a three-week stay at Cold Spring Harbor, training programs change from year to year, depending on availability of federal and private funds.DNA Bootcamp,Frontiers in Genomics,Plant Molecular Genetics, and Plant Molecular Genetics are a few of the topics offered.
Learn More2007 Dolan DNA Learning Center Summer Opportunities For Educators
Dolan DNA Learning Center Summer Opportunities For Educators highlight two day workshops, to two week fellowships, to a three week stay at Cold Spring Harbor. Training programs change from year to year, depending on availability of federal and private funds. Human and Genomic Biology, Plant Molecular Genetics and Genomics and Dynamic Gene Workshops are a few of the topics offered in 2007.
Learn MoreAdventures of Herman: The Autobiography of Squirmin' Herman the Worm
The Adventures of Herman will help you learn the basic vocabulary of biology: biological composition, digestion and reproduction told through a guided study of the worm. You will gain knowledge of the principles of basic scientific research and application through the creation, observation and maintenance of a worm bin and read critically and analytically by first viewing the biological life of the worm and creating an environment to support life.
Learn MoreAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)
The Society's purpose is to advance the science of biochemistry and molecular biology through publication of scientific and educational journals,organization of scientific meetings, advocacy for funding of basic research and education, support of science education at all levels, and promoting the diversity of individuals entering the scientific workforce.
Learn MoreBiological and medical scientists
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn MoreBiotechnology Summer Camp
Students will explore topics in three general areas of science: microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology. Activities will include: growth, isolation and characterization of microbes, protein chemistry, chromatography, enzy-mology, regulation of gene expression, DNA isolation analysis, amplification (PCR) and genetic modification using standard laboratory model organisms
Learn MoreCELLS alive!
CELLS alive! has captured with film and computer-enhanced images living cells and organisms for education and medical research. This is the place to watch cells in motion! A few of the animations illustrated include the basic cell-cell interactions that lead to antibody production, the stages of mitosis in an animal cell and the sequence of activities exhibited by cells.
Learn MoreColumbia University Summer Research Program for Science Teachers
The primary aim of the Program is to provide New York metropolitan area middle and high school science teachers with sustained hands-on experience in scientific research so they can better understand the practice of science, and better transmit to their students and fellow teachers a feeling for its practice. Each teacher spends two consecutive summers working as a laboratory research assistant under the supervision of a Columbia faculty mentor.
Learn MoreCornell Institute for Biology Teachers
Originally designed specifically for high school biology teachers, the Cornell Institute for Biology Teachers (CIBT) now includes elementary through high school teachers and school administrators. CIBT offers unique opportunities for professional development. The Classroom Resources and Activities section you'll find resources for CIBT-developed labs and activities.
Learn MoreCornell Institute for Biology Teachers: Summer Programs
CIBT Summer Programs include a Summer Biology Workshop and Special Topics in Microbiology. The workshop includes talks from Cornell faculty members, hands-on lab and field activities and opportunities for teachers to interact with other teachers and Cornell researchers. Microbiology topics have Cornell faculty illustrate new ideas about microbiology through talks and by leading the participants through a gamut of activities and labs. Activities include Microscopy techniques, Plating and Culturing experiments, and Molecular Phylogeny.
Learn MoreCornell University Summer College Program: Research Apprenticeship in Biological Sciences (RABS)
<p>If you're a serious, research-oriented student with a passion for science, this innovative, highly selective program will give you the rare opportunity to join a top-notch laboratory at one of the world's leading research institutions. Placements are available in molecular biology, cancer research, animal physiology, epidemiology, and other research areas tailored to your interests and experience.</p>
Learn MoreDiscovery Channel School's Curriculum Center
Here you will find classroom science activities, puzzles and project ideas to boost the study and support core curriculum topics like bacteria, chemistry, genetics, the universe and more. The correlated Discovery School videos and CD-ROMs provide a wealth of knowledge. The popular science topics are those taught in upper elementary and middle school.
Learn MoreGenetic Science Learning Center at the University of Utah: Cloning in Focus
Cloning in Focus helps you understand how genetics affects lives and society. There are interactive links that include: an introduction to cloning and how it's done, try it yourself in the mouse cloning laboratory, evaluate the reasons for using cloning techonologies, test your cloning savvy with an interactive quiz and more.
Learn MoreHands-on Activities for Teaching Biology to High School or Middle School Students
These hands-on activities cover a broad range of biological topics, including genetics, natural selection, microorganisms, and human physiology. These activities are designed to:help students understand important biological principles and concepts, develop student understanding of the scientific process, and improve students' writing and math skills.
Learn MoreHigh School Science Research Program (HSSRP)
HSSRP is an after school internship program for students interested in gaining hands on research experience. Students are exposed to advanced scientific material and research techniques. The goal of this program is to find students who demonstrate a keen interest in science and provide them with the knowledge and experience to work towards a career in the scientific world. Currently, the following three content areas are offered: Anthropology, Genetics and Genomics and Biodiversity.
Learn MoreHuman Genomics
Human Genomics (DNA Science alumni in grades 10-12) integrates biochemical and computer methods used to analyze the genetic complement (genome) of humans. Participants identify several types of DNA variations in their own DNA and use these as starting points to explore theories of human origins and applications in personalized medicine.
Learn MoreInside Cancer: Multimedia Education Resources For Cancer
Inside Cancer is a multimedia guide to cancer biology. Cancer causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and more.
Learn MoreKidsgardening: Helping Young Minds Grow
National Gardening Association is a leading national provider of K12, plant-based educational materials. The Kidsgardening programs, projects, thematic explorations and guides help children gain knowledge in science, literacy, social studies, nutrition, the environment, and personal skill areas such as leadership, problem-solving, and team building. Also, there are listings of grants for which teachers can write to support their gardening programs.
Learn MoreLearning at the Marian Koshland Science Museum
The Marian Koshland Science Museum has identified unique, inquiry-based activities that can be used in the classrooms. They are related to its Global Warming and Infectious Disease exhibits that are designed for middle and high-school students and adhere to the National Academies' National Science Education Standards.
Learn MoreLearning at the Marian Koshland Science Museum Webquests
The Koshland Science Museum has created online webquest activities for students interested in learning more about issues presented in the exhibits of Global Warming and Genetic Disease.
Learn MoreNational Biological Information Infrastructure Your Home for Biological Information on the Web
The National Biological Information Infrastructure (NBII) is a broad, collaborative program to provide increased access to data and information on the nation's biological resources.The NBII links diverse, high-quality biological databases, information products, and analytical tools and topics that include Habitats, Plants, Animals and Other Organisms, Ecological Topics and more.
Learn MoreNational Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
Established in 1988 as a national resource for molecular biology information, NCBI creates public databases, conducts research in computational biology, develops software tools for analyzing genome data, and disseminates biomedical information - all for the better understanding of molecular processes affecting human health and disease.
Learn MoreNew York Academy of Sciences New York City Science and Engineering Fair (NYCSEF)
NYCSEF is the New York City Department of Education's annual science and technology research competition, coordinated by the New York Academy of Sciences in partnership with Polytechnic University. All students in grades 9 to 12 attending schools within the five boroughs are eligible to apply.
Learn MoreNew York Academy of Sciences: Academy Programs- New York City Science and Engineering Fair
Annual science research and technology competition for NYC high school students. Applications are due in late November.
Learn MorePlant Genomics
Plant Genomics (DNA Science alumni in grades 10 to12) integrates biochemical and computer methods for analyzing plant genes. Participants examine food products for signs of genetic modification, detect jumping genes discovered by CSHL Nobelist Barbara McClintock, and have the unique opportunity to assist scientists with the analysis of newly discovered genes in rice.
Learn MorePlant Genomics
Plant Genomics (DNA Science alumni in grades 10-12) integrates biochemical and computer methods for analyzing plant genes. Participants examine food products for signs of genetic modification, detect ?jumping genes? discovered by CSHL Nobelist Barbara McClintock, and have the unique opportunity to assist scientists with the analysis of newly discovered genes in rice.
Learn MorePreCollege Research Abroad Program at the Puschino Science Center Russia
KEI's PreCollege Research Abroad Program at the Puschino Science Center (PSC) is a joint effort between the Knowledge Exchange Institute and the Russian Academy of Science, to provide research and educational opportunities to motivated high school students at one of the largest research centers in Russia. The curriculum consists of laboratory research, seminars, preparation for the Intel Science Talent Search (as well as other science contests) and preparation for journal publication.
Learn MoreProject E.R. (Environmental Rescue)
Ecosystems are changing rapidly, and plants and animals are becoming extinct at an alarming rate. Because humans depend on ecosystems for food, medicine, and other natural resources, it is time for you to rescue the environment. What can you do to protect the planet and the things that live on it? To find out join Project E.R. (environmental rescue).
Learn MoreRader's Biology4Kids
Biology4Kids.com is a website that teaches the basics of biology to all ages. It has sections on cell structure, cell function, the scientific method, classification, microorganisms, invertebrates, plants, vertebrates, and animal systems.
Learn MoreRochester Scholars
The Rochester Scholars program provides an exciting academic experience for high school students to explore the sciences, social sciences, engineering, and humanities.Students have a chance to interact with peers from area schools who have a wide range of interests and goals. And they get to test the "college experience" in a fun-filled, but challenging, setting.
Learn MoreSmithsonian National Zoological Park Online Resources for Educators and Students
The Smithsonian National Zoological Park is a great place to discover and appreciate diverse and unusual creatures from tiny leaf-cutter ants to huge elephants. The Zoo's Online Resources website has animal fact sheets, live web cams, links to other educations sites, photo galleries, articles from our magazine, and Conservation Central, an online habitat education program that helps kids learn about habitat conservation through curricula and activities and more.
Learn MoreSt. Joseph's College High School Program - Experiences in Scientific Research
This four Saturday program features one Saturday of each of the following: new experiments in chemistry, polymer chemistry, physiology experiences, microbiology wonders, physics challenges, astronomy adventures and finally, forensic science, artistry in science with a detective guest speaker on this day during lunch time.
Learn MoreSummer Science Academy
This three week program is designed for students to use state-of -the-art equipment to do hands-on laboratory investigations and to design their own experiment. Emphasis is on microbiology and molecular biology.
Learn MoreUniversity of Rochester: Rochester Scholars
The Rochester Scholars program provides an exciting academic experience for high school students to explore the sciences, social sciences, engineering, and humanities.Students have a chance to interact with peers from area schools who have a wide range of interests and goals. And they get to test the college experience in a fun filled, but challenging, setting!
Learn MoreWhat is it Like Where You Live? Biomes and Ecosystems of the World
Scientists have different ways to describe regions of the world. Plants and animals that live near you don't necessarily live elsewhere. Explore terrestrial biomes like Temperate Deciduous Forests, the Deserts, the Grasslands, the Rainforests and more and Aquatic Ecosystems such as Ponds and Lakes, Rivers and Streams, Wetlands and more at this interactive site.
Learn More