Microbiologist

You would study micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and algae. Your work could be used to prevent diseases, make new medicines or grow more food.

You could work in a variety of different areas.

If you work in healthcare as a clinical microbiologist you would identify pathogens – which produce diseases – and work out how to protect communities from the spread of infection.

Or you could do research and development in different areas, including:

• pharmaceuticals

• food

• agriculture

• environment

• education

• biotechnology

Depending on the industry you would:

• monitor, identify and help to control infectious diseases

• use molecular biology techniques to develop and test new medicines and treatments for disease

• investigate the potential of micro-organisms to produce antibodies, vaccines, hormones and other biotechnology products

• assess the use of microbes for use in producing food , protecting crops and improving soil fertility

• check the quality and safety of manufactured food and medical products

• use micro-organisms to control pollution and break down toxic substances

• develop ways to dispose of waste safely

You would also present the findings of your research, supervise the work of support staff and do administrative work.

If you work as a researcher and lecturer in a university or teaching hospital, you would tutor, mentor and supervise students.

• Microbiology Society – Careers information

• Society for Applied Microbiology – focused on work in environment, human and animal health, agriculture, and industry

• NHS Careers – About working in medical microbiology and virology for the National Health Service

• Health and Care Professions Council – Regulates people working in health, psychological and social work