Applied Microbiology: What is it? The study of microorganisms is a field that is used to address issues with agriculture, the environment, and public health. Any organism that can only be seen under a microscope is referred to as a “micro-organism,” which includes a wide variety of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other single- and multicellular organisms. Learn more about professions in applied microbiology by reading on.
What Do Microbiologists Do?
Scientists who research microorganisms to understand how they behave in various contexts and apply this knowledge to problems that have an impact on humanity are known as microbiologists. For instance, the work of applied microbiologists is utilized in the search for illness treatments, the development of efficient and secure pesticides, and the preservation of the environment. In addition to working in the field and scientific research facilities, microbiologists can specialize in a variety of subfields, including viruses, bacteria, business, the environment, and medicine.
What Type of Education is Needed?
For entry-level jobs, most microbiologists first earn a bachelor’s degree in the subject. However, to teach and perform original research in the discipline, a doctorate is required. Research funding for doctors of applied microbiology is highly competitive, and in most cases, years of laboratory experience are required before obtaining a Ph.D. in the discipline. Students who wish to accomplish the data analysis required in this discipline must possess a solid understanding of mathematics and statistics in addition to their science coursework and lab experience.
What is the Career Outlook in Applied Microbiology?
Over the next ten years, opportunities in this industry are predicted to expand by 7%, which is slower than the growth of the majority of other professions. However, opportunities for applied microbiologists will remain good as the demand for new medications and treatments rises and the field of biotechnology expands quickly. Since careers in this profession rely heavily on federal funding, job availability varies from year to year as priorities change.
The American Society for Microbiology is the main professional association for applied microbiology. The American Society for Microbiology provides resources for people interested in jobs in applied microbiology, as well as instruction for the general public and pupils as young as kindergarten. This is in addition to producing the leading academic magazine on the subject. Americans of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds can learn more about applied microbiology on their website, which is a great resource.