Microbiologists

Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.

Job Task

• Conduct chemical analyses of substances, such as acids, alcohols, and enzymes.
• Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
• Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
• Isolate and make cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
• Observe action of microorganisms upon living tissues of plants, higher animals, and other microorganisms, and on dead organic matter.
• Perform tests on water, food and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms and to obtain information about sources of pollution and contamination.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations based upon research outcomes.
• Research use of bacteria and microorganisms to develop vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, grain alcohol, sugars, and polymers.
• Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant, and animal health.
• Study the structure and function of human, animal and plant tissues, cells, pathogens and toxins.
• Conduct research to address agricultural issues such as increasing crop yield, combating crop damage and determining the effects of microorganisms on soil and agricultural products and insect control.
• Isolate and tend microorganisms that break down pollutants or produce alternate sources of energy.
• Provide laboratory services for health departments, for community environmental health programs and for physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
• Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
• Use biotechnology in such applications as the production of specialty biologicals, for gene transfer or to advance knowledge of cell reproduction and human disease.
• Develop new products and new methods of food and pharmaceutical supply preservation.
• Use a variety of specialized equipment such as electron microscopes, gas chromatographs and high pressure liquid chromatographs, electrophoresis units, thermocyclers, fluorescence activated cell sorters and phosphoimagers.

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