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Microbiology Technologist - Career Profile |
Career OverviewMicrobiology technologists study disease in its most basic form. Although few people appreciate the role that microbiology plays in disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, the work of microbiology technologists and the microbiologists with whom these professionals work, is absolutely essential to modern medical practice.
In a typical setting, microbiology technologists receive human or animal body materials, including cell and tissue samples. Some materials are collected directly from the patient, others are collected during an autopsy or diagnostic case.
Microbiology technicians examine the samples for evidence of microbial organisms using a variety of testing procedures and investigative practices. They then help microbiologists and physicians to make a diagnosis of the state of the material collected and, as appropriate, determine a disease prevention method or disease treatment plan.
In general, microbiology technicians can investigate how organisms cause disease and what role organisms have in the progression of a disease. They can also investigate how microorganisms function to produce vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, alcohols, and sugars. The work of microbiology technicians, as assistants to microbiologists, can lead to medical, agricultural, industrial, and sanitary breakthroughs.
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Career RequirementsMicrobiology technicians generally require a bachelor’s degree or higher in microbiology technology or a college technology degree in microbiological sciences. Most aspirant microbiology technologists also have considerable experience volunteering by the time that they apply for entry into a training program as entry is becoming increasingly competitive.
A keen interest and considerable ability in biology, chemistry, and mathematics is generally required of microbiology technologists.
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Job OutlookThe demand for microbiology technologists is steady and reliable for the foreseeable future. A number of different industries are largely dependent upon the work of microbiologists and microbiology technicians so employment opportunities are readily available in the field.
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Career TrackMicrobiologists and microbiology technologists are employed by a range of organizations and thus work in a range of different settings. Government, hospital, college, university, industrial, commercial, and agricultural institutions have use of microbiology technologists, not only as scientific researchers, but also as educators and administrators.
Long-term advancement depends on education level and career aspirations. Microbiologists can move into related biology fields, such as biochemistry, genetics, ecology, virology, and biochemical engineering. They can also choose to become clinical technicians with appropriate training.
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CompensationStandard compensation for microbiology technologists ranges between $30,000 and $50,000 per year depending upon experience and the precise nature of the job. Additional benefits may include paid vacations, medical and dental insurance, and disability insurance.
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