Microbiologist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

University

To become a microbiologist, you could do a degree in:

• microbiology
• biology
• life sciences
• biological science

Some degree courses include an integrated master's qualification like MBiol or MSci. You'll usually have more time for independent research and they're designed to lead directly onto further postgraduate study like a PhD.

Training programme for the NHS

If you want to work in the NHS as a microbiologist, you could apply to the Scientist Training Programme (STP) after your degree.

You'll train on the job, get paid a salary and receive a master's degree at the end.

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You may be able to become a microbiologist by doing an apprenticeship, for example:

• Laboratory Scientist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• Research Scientist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship

These apprenticeships can take between 3 and 5 years to complete.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

Work

You might be able to get into microbiology by working your way up from a laboratory technician .

You would need to study part time for a biological science degree or degree apprenticeship while you work.

Volunteering

You may improve your career prospects if you can get some work experience in a lab .

You can find opportunities with the NHS, as part of your degree course or by working during the holidays. Your university can also help you find volunteering opportunities.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• knowledge of biology
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• maths knowledge
• science skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent written communication skills
• knowledge of English language
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to learn through your work
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• persistence and determination
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Microbiologists study organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi and algae to make advances in environmental science, medicine and agriculture.

As a microbiologist, you could:

• test patient samples to identify infections and monitor outbreaks
• develop new medical treatments using microbiology techniques
• investigate how microorganisms make antibodies, vaccines and hormones
• assess the impact of microbes in foods, crops and soils
• check the safety of manufactured food or medicines
• use microorganisms to control pollution and develop biofuels

Location : You could work at a university or in a laboratory.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £23,000
Experienced : £45,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm flexibly

Career Path:

With experience, you could:

• manage a team of microbiologists and technicians
• move into commercial research and development
• teach at university
• offer consultancy services

In the NHS, you could progress to specialist, team manager and consultant.