Microbiologists 
General Information
Description
Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Industry areas
- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Job Outlook
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Salary
Salary Information
Median Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$81,990
State-by-state Salary
Gray states indicate no data available
Education & Interests
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
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Bachelor's degree 47%
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Post baccalaureate 17%
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Master's degree 13%
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Post-doctoral training 8%
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Doctoral degree 4%
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Associate's degree 4%
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Post-master's certificate 4%
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High school 0%
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Some college 0%
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Less than high school 0%
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First professional degree 0%
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Post-secondary certificate 0%
Related College Majors
Select major to see colleges that offer it
PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS
You may find this career fulfilling if you consider yourself to be:
- Investigative — You have an interest in studying and researching objects, organisms, and other things.
- Realistic — You have an interest in physically working with equipment, materials or structures.
Not sure what characteristics best describe you? Take the RIASEC Test.
Skills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Knowledge
- Biology
- Education and Training
- Chemistry
- English Language
- Mathematics
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