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Job Title: Microbiologist

Description: Study the structure and nature of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or algae. Work to understand the metabolism, genetics, and ecology of these organisms to better understand how they impact the environment around them. Performs chemical and biological analyses, prepares reports, and disseminates findings through publication and scientific meetings.

Degree Required: BS

  • Bachelor of Science Degree is an undergraduate academic degree awarded for completed courses that generally last three to five years. Variations of a BS include a BT, referring to a Bachelor's of Technology, or a BA, a Bachelor of Arts degree. These different terms are often used for different areas of study or may be specific to colleges.

Skills Required: Computer skills, Creative writing skills, Independent worker, Learns on the job, Mathematical thinker, Oral communication skills, Record maintenance, Scientific thinker, Scientific writing skills, Time management skills, Teaching skills, Works under pressure, Written communication skills

Market Sector: Government, Industry, Museum/Zoo/Aquarium, Non-Profit, University/Education

Relative Salary:  $$

  • We did not collect actual income range information in our survey. Instead we chose to express income range with a number of dollar signs, expressing relative salaries. A single $ is relatively low salary compared to the average, $$ - $$$ is average, and $$$$$ is much higher than average income.

    Since each person surveyed may have a different viewpoint as to what constitutes an average salary, and since salary is often commensurate with years of experience, the number of dollar signs should not be regarded as an absolute, but only as an indicator.