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.
Common Job Titles
- Bacteriologist
- Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Clinical Lab Scientist)
- Microbiological Analyst
- Microbiologist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate organism-disease relationships and antibiotic effects on microorganisms in medical microbiology contexts, collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.Advanced
- KnowledgeDesign experimental protocols and research methodologies for investigating microscopic organisms under varying environmental conditions.Advanced
- KnowledgeInterpret complex biological data from genomic sequencing, spectroscopy, and chromatography analyses utilizing bioinformatics software and statistical analysis tools.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize research findings into scientific publications and presentations for peer-reviewed journals and professional conferences.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate solutions to complex microbial contamination and disease transmission challenges integrating biological, chemical, and environmental factors independently.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze microbial growth patterns, structural characteristics, and developmental stages using advanced microscopy and molecular techniques in laboratory settings.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate specialized laboratory equipment including mass spectrometers, flow cytometers, and electron microscopes following established safety protocols and quality control standards.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform microbial culture techniques, staining procedures, and aseptic manipulations using biological safety cabinets and sterile equipment in controlled laboratory environments.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate regulatory compliance requirements with laboratory safety protocols when handling infectious agents and hazardous materials.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess antimicrobial susceptibility and pathogen identification results using automated microbial identification systems and LIMS databases.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate evidence-based scientific practices and quality assurance standards when training laboratory personnel and collaborating with research teams.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Microbiologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
19,760
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $51,220. 25th percentile: U.S. $63,920. 50th percentile: U.S. $87,330. 75th percentile: U.S. $120,750. 90th percentile: U.S. $150,650. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $51,220 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $150,650 |
| Workers on average earn | $95,200 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Biology4.7/5
- Chemistry3.8/5
- English Language3.6/5
- Computers and Electronics3.6/5
- Education and Training3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Assistant Software for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Interpretation ASASI
- BD Biosciences CellQuest
- BD Biosciences CloneCyt
- Basic Local Alignment Search Tool BLAST
- Bruker Optics OPUS
- BtB Software Mycobacteriology Lab
- Codon Usage Database
- ComBase
Tools & Equipment
- 8-channel electronic pipettes
- Alcohol lamps
- Anaerobic growth chambers
- Analytical balances
- Argon lasers
- Autoclaves
- Automated gram stainers
- Automated microbial identification systems