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Microbiologist
Microbiologists study microbes such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. The central aim of microbiology is to study how microbes interact with the world around them and how we can make use of these interactions. This includes solving important problems in medicine, agriculture and industry. The research possibilities for a microbiologist are many and varied. They can study microbes that spoil food, help plants grow, make medicines or cause diseases. Microbiologists may also work as university lecturers or government advisers on their field of research.
Working conditions
Microbiologists usually work in laboratories with a range of equipment, from culture samples in petri dishes to sophisticated computer software. Working conditions are usually clean and comfortable, but may pose some danger to health and safety, given the types of organisms that microbiologists often work with. Some microbiologists may work in non-laboratory-based areas such as agricultural sites when collecting samples. Others may work as teachers in a university classroom or advising government departments.
Microbiologists in the health and medical life sciences industry study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites to prevent, diagnose, treat infectious diseases and support medical research. Microbiologists in this industry are employed across a wide range of settings including pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies and contract research organisations (CROs), medical research institutes, clinical laboratories and universities.
Working days are often long, especially at the beginning of one's career. There is little travel required for microbiologists.
Working days are often long, especially at the beginning of one's career. There is little travel required for microbiologists.
Tools and technologies
A microbiologist's work involves using highly specialised equipment such as microscopes to examine microbial cultures and advanced laboratory instruments to analyse tissue samples. These samples can vary widely depending on the area of research, and can include anything from honey to human blood. Computer programs which analyse microbes are also used.
Standard word processing and presentation computer software is also used to write reports and deliver findings to an audience.
They often work with hazardous chemicals and biological matter, which will require them to wear protective clothing.
Education and training
To become a Microbiologist, you usually need to study a university degree in science, majoring in microbiology and immunology or biomedical science. Curtin University, Edith Cowan University (ECU) , Murdoch University, University of Notre Dame and the University of Western Australia (UWA) offer courses in this field.
For details on course structure, entry requirements and application deadlines, please contact the educational institutions directly.
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