subject: Career Search Leading to the Field of Microbiology [print this page] Career Search Leading to the Field of Microbiology
A science student's career search often leads to the field of microbiology and biotechnology. If you ask a common man what a microbiologist is all about, he might give you the general point of view that a scientist or a doctor working in the field of microbiology is a microbiologist. The statement is correct, but only pertaining to a small standpoint. For a better understanding, answers to all major aspects of microbiology are discussed below.
What is Microbiology?A general study of organisms (which are known as microbes) summarizes the general scope of microbiology.
Who is a Microbiologist?A person who studies the field of microbiology is known as a microbiologist.
What are Microbes?Most of us have heard of microbes but are not aware that micro organisms like bacteria, different forms of viruses and fungi are scientifically called microbes. Protists are also classified as microbes.
History of MicrobiologyAntonie van Leeuwenhoek was the first person who initiated, studied and researched in the field of microbiology. Hence, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek is commonly referred as the father of microbiology.
What do Microbiologists do?Microbes are capable of affecting humans and the environment in many ways; some positive, some negative ways.
To put it in a better perspective, a microbiologist studies all the aspects of how microbes affect the environment around them.
Actually, microbiology is a broader concept which has many deep divisions. Fields, or you can called them steps or specialties includes the followingBacteriologists (study of bacteria which is termed as bacteriology)Virologists (study of viruses called as virology)Protozoologists( study of protists )Mycologists (study of fungi)Medical microbiologists (doctors studying microbial diseases in patients)Immunologists (study of immunization in terms of microbes)Industrial microbiologists (related to biotechnology)Food microbiologists (study of pathogenic microorganisms related to the food industry)
Educational AspectsDegrees leading to the field of microbiology include bachelor's, master's and doctoral studies.
PhD can also be done in this field. All in all, with a lucrative career ahead, a microbiologist just needs experience on his resume to move ahead in his line of interest.
PhD can also be done in this field. All in all, with a lucrative career ahead, a microbiologist just needs experience on his resume to move ahead in his line of interest.
