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Microbiologist

Microbiologists study microscopic forms of life such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, algae and fungi to increase scientific knowledge and develop medical, veterinary, industrial, environmental and other practical applications.

TASKS

Microbiologists may perform the following tasks:

develop products, such as antibiotics, detergents or cosmetics, that either combat diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms or harness the positive capabilities of microorganisms
test samples from patients, isolating and identifying the microbes that cause illness, examining their susceptibility to antibiotics and giving advice about appropriate treatment
prevent and control the spread of harmful microbes in hospitals, the food industry and the general population
advise the government about public health policies
examine natural products for their ability to inhibit the growth of dangerous microbes and apply their findings to the medical and food industries
investigate the potential of microbes to improve human and animal health through nutrition
develop and improve fermented drinks and foods, such as beer, wine, cheese and yoghurt
research the microbiology of plants and use microbes to control pests, weeds and animal diseases
study DNA and the use of bacteria to introduce specially engineered genes into an organism in order to fight disease or to change a specific feature of the organism
use their knowledge of microbiology to minimise the environmental impact of production and clean up existing pollution
investigate the ways in which microorganisms can be used to improve and enhance products that impact on quality of life, such as food and beverages

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy and have aptitude for science and research
able to think logically and analytically
able to carry out detailed and accurate work
good communication skills
able to think creatively and solve problems
able to work as part of a team

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a microbiologist you usually have to complete a degree in science, biomedical science, medical science or health science at university with a major in microbiology. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer these degrees.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Graduates may be eligible for membership of The Australian Society for Microbiology. Visit their website for more details.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Microbiologists are employed in federal, state, territory and local government organisations, including research organisations and hospitals. They are also employed in the private sector in a wide range of industries, such as agriculture, food production, private pathology and pharmaceuticals.