Go Under the Lens with Bachelor of Science Degree in Microbiology
The medical breakthroughs that give birth to miracle drugs, vaccines and antidotes are the work of the biochemists and microbiologists. Their participation in the advancement of medicine is indeed commendable.
When nations were attacked by epidemic outbreaks, microbiologists find causes of the killer disease and when we need our food to be tested, they are called upon to serve for the safety of the general public. The agriculture sector also thanks microbiologists for their work in generating genetically engineered plants and crops. And as technological advances are introduced to us, microbiology welcomes an even more sophisticated approach in science.
How to Work Under the Lens
Individuals interested in microbiology and biochemistry and are planning to work in medical or research laboratories, are advised to take related degrees.
A Bachelor of Science in Microbiology degree is focused on the study and research of microorganisms like bacteria, algae, and fungi and also in the study of related courses such as biochemistry, biotechnology, bacteriology, parasites, mycology, virology, marine microbiology, food processing and other branches of medicinal science.
Students who want to apply for the degree should have high marking in biology in order to be admitted by the colleges. They are also required to have high literacy in English. Also, it is important to check the status of the college where you are applying. The degree program is usually accredited by the noted medical association. Accredited schools usually offer assistance and access to students with their partner government agencies. Aside from accreditation, a student applying for a degree should look on the job opportunities and faculty offered by the college.
Microbiologists usually work in various environment and positions. Others prefer to work as researchers in food and drug industry, agriculture, hospitals or medical institutions. Meanwhile, others work as laboratory scientists, professors or microbiologists in government research centers.
It is seen that in the next 5 to 10 years, microbiologists will be more needed in the field of medicine as the continuous studies on wonder drugs for AIDS, cancers and other fatal ailments never stops.
The usual duties and responsibilities of Microbiologists are:
- Planning and managing research projects – i.e. development of new drugs for fatal or contagious ailments
- Oversee Work of Laboratory Technicians
- Evaluation of Test Results. Checking its Accuracy and Truthfulness
- Culturing and Isolation of Bacteria for Future Studies
- Identification, Classification, Documentation and Processing of Specimen
- Studying the Relationship of Microorganisms from one Life Form to Another
- Keep record of findings, prepare technical reports and derive conclusions on findings that could help in decision-making
There are also different types of microbiologists: the Bacteriologists, clinical microbiologists, immunologists, mycologists, and virologists. The average salary of Microbiologists is $33,840 to $65,900
The increasing population, problems on health and worldwide campaigns for health and wellness will boost businesses like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology research. Microbiologists will be needed along the way as capitalists put more money to the research and development of vaccines, antibiotics and other drugs. There will also be great demands for cleaner energy and cleaner water. And when this time comes, microbiologists will be recruited fast and urgent.
The US Federal Government spends much in research and development, biochemistry, genetics, and microbiology. The federal government is the largest employer of scientists and also pays them well.
