Download Job Description for a Clinical Microbiologist

Job Description for a Clinical Microbiologist
By Ally Laconi, eHow Contributor
Microbiologists study disease-causing microorganisms.
A clinical microbiologist studies the microorganisms that cause illness in humans and animals. A
clinical microbiologist investigates the causes of contagious diseases and researches new
treatments for infections. Microbiologists play a key role in discovering new infectious agents
and in developing methods to fight disease-causing pathogens.
1. Job Features
o
A clinical microbiologist uses a microscope to study the bacteria, viruses, fungi
and protozoa that cause infectious disease. Most microbiologists spend the
majority of their working hours in a laboratory setting. Clinical microbiologists
identify disease-causing pathogens, test new antimicrobial medicines and devise
strategies for preventing the spread of contagious illnesses.
Employers
o
Clinical microbiologists work in a variety of settings. Clinical microbiologists
supervise infection control procedures in hospitals to ensure that illnesses do not
spread among patients. Medical centers and private laboratories hire clinical
microbiologists as researchers. Public health departments employ clinical
microbiologists to develop strategies for preventing and controlling epidemics and
other health emergencies. Clinical microbiologists who hold a doctoral degree can
teach microbiology at universities.
Job Outlook and Salary
o
The number of available jobs for biological scientists like microbiologists will
increase at a faster than average rate, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that microbiologists earn an
median annual salary of $64,350 per year.
Education
o
A bachelor's degree in microbiology is sufficient for various applied research jobs
and technical positions, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 20102011 Occupation Outlook Handbook. Clinical microbiologists who achieve a
doctoral degree work as independent researchers, university professors and in
administrative positions.
Skills
o
Clinical microbiology requires investigative and critical thinking, timemanagement skills and the ability to work independently. Clinical microbiologists
use high-tech equipment and must be able to operate and maintain this equipment
properly. Microbiologists need a strong background in mathematics.
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