A Career in Microbiology: Degrees, Scope, and Job Opportunities

Want to know what further steps you must take to build a career in microbiology? Here are the details that will help you understand it.

Microbiology studies microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

Microbiologists study these organisms’ structure, function, and behavior and their interactions with other living things and the environment. They use various techniques, such as microscopy, culturing, and genetic analysis, to study microorganisms and their activities.

Microbiology has many practical applications, such as in developing antibiotics, vaccines, and other medical treatments, as well as in producing food, fuel, and other products.

Degrees you can opt-in for Microbiology after 10th grade:

Pursuing a degree in microbiology after the 10th standard is impossible as it is a field of study requiring a minimum qualification of 10+2 with a science stream. However, after completing 10+2 with a science stream, students can opt for microbiology as an undergraduate course. The degrees that students can opt for in microbiology after 10+2 are:

1. Bachelor of Science in Microbiology:

It is a three-year undergraduate program that covers various aspects of microbiology, such as bacteriology, virology, mycology, immunology, genomics, and more. Graduates in this field can pursue careers in varied fields such as research and development, public health, environmental science, and biotechnology.

2. Bachelor of Science in Microbiology with Biotechnology:

This is a three-year undergraduate program that combines the study of microbiology with biotechnology. It covers genetic engineering, immune technology, fermentation technology, and more. Graduates in this field can pursue careers in varied fields such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, agriculture, and environmental science.

3. Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology:

This three-year undergraduate program trains students in medical lab technology with a focus on microbiology. It covers subjects such as clinical microbiology, immunology, serology, and hematology. Graduates in this field can opt for vivid career options such as working in different places such as hospitals, research laboratories, and public health agencies.

4. Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biochemistry:

This is a three-year undergraduate program that combines the study of microbiology with biochemistry. It covers subjects such as microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology, and more. Graduates in this field can pursue careers in varied fields such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food science, and environmental science.

5. Bachelor of Science in Industrial Microbiology:

It is a three-year undergraduate program that trains students in applying microbiology in industrial settings. It covers industrial microbiology, fermentation technology, bioprocess engineering, and more. Graduates in this field can opt for vivid career options such as biotechnology, food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science.

After completing an undergraduate degree in microbiology, students can opt for postgraduate degrees such as Master of Science in Microbiology, Master of Science in Medical Microbiology, Master of Science in Applied Microbiology, and more. Students who wish to pursue research in microbiology can also opt for a Ph.D. in Microbiology.

Job opportunities and scope in this field:

Microbiology is a vast field that offers many job opportunities after graduation and a Ph.D. Here are some of the job opportunities available for candidates with microbiology degrees:

1. Research Scientist:

Microbiology graduates and Ph.D. holders can work as research scientists in various research institutions, biotech companies, government agencies, and pharmaceutical companies. They can work in vivid areas such as drug discovery, vaccine development, microbiome research, and biotechnology.

2. Quality Control and Quality Assurance Executive:

Microbiology graduates and Ph.D. holders can work as quality control and quality assurance executives in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and biotech industries. They can work to ensure that products meet the required safety and quality standards by developing new quality control procedures and compliance with standard quality requirements.

3. Clinical Microbiologist:

Microbiology graduates and Ph.D. holders can work as clinical microbiologists in hospitals, public health laboratories, and research institutions. They can work to identify pathogens and diagnose diseases caused by microorganisms. They also work with the members of the healthcare professionals to develop new treatment plans and monitor their effectiveness.

4. Medical Writer:

Microbiology graduates and Ph.D. holders can work as medical writers for pharmaceutical companies, medical research organizations, and scientific publishers. They can write scientific articles, research papers, and other publications related to microbiology. They also ensure that the documents are accurate, precise, and effective. The essential requirement to become a medical writer is that one must possess excellent writing and communication skills and a practical grasp of scientific terminology.

5. Environmental Microbiologist:

Microbiology graduates and Ph.D. holders can work as environmental microbiologists in government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and research institutions. They can work to monitor and analyze environmental samples for microorganisms and develop strategies for controlling microbial pollution.

6. Food Microbiologist:

Microbiology graduates and Ph.D. holders can work as food microbiologists in the food and beverage industry, regulatory agencies, and research institutions. They can work to ensure the safety and quality of food products by identifying and controlling microbial contamination.

7. Professor:

Microbiology Ph.D. holders can work as professors in universities and research institutions. They can teach and conduct research in microbiology and related fields. They can also publish their research findings in academic journals, present them at scientific conferences, and serve on various committees.

Microbiologist — Statistical data about Salary in India in 2023:

A person working as Microbiologist in India typically earns around 69,800 INR. Salaries range from 36,300 INR (lowest) to 107,000 INR (highest).

How can a Degree affect the salary?

Level 1: Bachelor’s Degree

Employees at this education level have an average salary of 53,200 INR.

Level 2: Master’s Degree

At this level, the average salary becomes 65,900 INR, 24% more than the previous level.

Level 3: PhD

The average salary becomes 1,05,000 INR at this level, 60% more than the previous level.

List of top colleges and universities providing specialization courses in microbiology:

Many colleges and universities in India offer specialization courses in microbiology. Some of the top colleges and universities include:

1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi

2. Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi

3. University of Delhi, New Delhi

4. Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi

5. Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

6. University of Calcutta, Kolkata

7. University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad

8. Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune

9. Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli

10. University of Madras, Chennai

These are just the few best examples available for students. Nowadays, many colleges and universities are providing this course.

How can Career Counseling help you?

Career counseling with CareerNaksha can benefit students considering choosing a career in microbiology. Here are some ways in which career counseling can help in choosing microbiology:

1. Exploration of interests and skills:

A career counselor can help students explore their interests and skills related to microbiology, such as a love of biology, interest in research, or curiosity about microorganisms.

2. Understanding Job Opportunities:

A career counselor can provide insights into the different job opportunities that are available in the field of microbiology.

3. Discussion on Qualifications Required:

A career counselor can discuss the qualifications required to succeed in a career in microbiology, such as the necessary educational background, certifications, and skills.

4. Overview of Industry Trends:

A career counselor can provide an overview of industry trends in microbiology, including emerging technologies, innovations, and opportunities.

5. Guidance on Higher Education:

A career counselor can guide you in choosing the right education program for pursuing a career in microbiology, such as a BSc, MSc, or Ph.D. in microbiology.

Career counseling with CareerNaksha can provide students with valuable insights and guidance on pursuing a career in microbiology.