MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Table of contents
What is Microbiology? 1

Role of Microbiology and Microbes 2

Branches of Microbiology
6
Basic Microbiology Techniques 8

Educational Requirements 10

What does a Microbiologist do? 11

Working Environment 13

Skills Required 14

Courses in Microbiology 15

Top Universities and Colleges for Microbiology 16

Salary 17

Job profiles 18

Employment Areas 18

Top Employers 19

Resume for Microbiologists 20

Pros of being a Microbiologist 21

Cons of being a Microbiologist 21

Future Prospects in the field of Microbiology 22

Trending Topics In Microbiology 28

Future Challenges in Microbiology 30

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

What is
Microbiology?
Microbiology (micros - small, bios - life, logos - science)
is a branch that studies microscopically-minute living
entities like algae, protozoa, fungi, virus, archaea, and
bacteria. Even though microorganisms are impossible
to spot with the naked eye, these organisms contribute
to 60% of living things on the Earth with a significant
influence on all other living beings.

Microbial interactions & activities are crucial to nearly

all processes on Earth, serving main roles in the control
& cause of the disease, food spoilage, climate change,
biodegradation, as well as nutrient cycling

Microbiology is an extensive and multidisciplinary field

that converges with many other life science disciplines
like engineering, molecular biology, biochemistry, and
genetics. Microbiological science aims to acquire
in-depth knowledge on the fundamental aspects of
microbes by exploring their genetics, reproduction,
physiology, metabolism, and morphology, while others
study their ecological role and interactions with other
living beings

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Types of Microbes

Microbiology studies have been and continue to be

a way to resolve several ancient and present-day
challenges in the world like maintaining energy,
water, and food security for a sound population on
an inhabitable Earth. Implementing the basic
microbial knowledge has resulted in the
development of countless environmental,
industrial, veterinary, medical, and other
biotechnology applications that improve the lives
of humankind.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Role of 1 . The root of biology

Microbiology studies have been and continue to

Microbiology be a way to resolve several ancient and present-
day challenges in the world like maintaining
and Microbes energy, water, and food security for a sound
population on an inhabitable Earth. Implementing
the basic microbial knowledge has resulted in the
development of countless environmental,
industrial, veterinary, medical, and other
biotechnology applications that improve the lives
of humankind.

Microorganisms influence all kinds of life and

Earth’s chemical & physical make-up. This has been
happening since life originated on our planet. None
of the other beings can make a similar claim. It is
possible to have a life without all other organisms,
however, it is impossible for a life without microbes.
Therefore, it is believed that any biological or
geological discipline-related studies have to include
By learning present-day microbes that replicate
microbial activities, or else it would be incomplete.
the attributes of the first life forms. Microbiology
Microorganisms are the masters of the biosphere,
experts get to discern the processes & forces that
and Earth indeed is a planet of microorganisms.
formed our global ecosystem. Furthermore,
microbes are the leading systems to employ in
Additionally, microbes are human health the experimental transformation, since they
determinants and the source for essential items in provide the researchers manageable study
industrial and medical purposes. Thus, microbiology systems, unequaled experimental scale, genetic
is equally important to the study of life as molecular flexibility, and quick generation times. Research
biology, evolution, genetics, or biochemistry. An with microbes has resulted in pioneering
informed biologist should consider microbiology as understandings into the evolution of all kinds of
the principal element and not merely as a discipline species. For instance, explorations of the
of biology interrelatedness of microbes initially revealed the
current model of the evolutionary associations of
line on the planet, the biological tree of life

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

2. Maintaining life on Earth

Life not only started with microbes, the sustained As microbes can absorb nutrients and many
existence of life on the planet entirely depends other elements that bigger organisms mostly
on the discreet microorganisms. Microbes are can’t use, microbes are placed at the bottom of
accountable for the cycling of essential elements several food chains, wherein previously inert and
for life including oxygen, hydrogen, sulfur, inorganic matters are siphoned by them into the
nitrogen, and carbon. By circulating these biosphere. Microorganisms are even adepts in
elements in soils, microorganisms control the recycling. They disintegrate biological litters and
plant nutrient availability, consequently governs discharge the necessary elements for other
soil fertility, and facilitates the efficient growth of organisms to use
plants that sustains animal and human life.
Researchers have just started to discern the
Microbes additionally serve a key role in circulating mechanisms by which microbes adapt to their
atmospheric gases like compounds accountable surroundings such as how microbes communicate
for the greenhouse effect which contradictorily with each other to perform tasks that improve
sustains life on Earth, however, global warming the biosphere, and how they react to alterations.
presents a threat to all living beings. More Discerning these events will result in an in-depth
photosynthesis is performed by microorganisms understanding of our global ecological system.
compared to green plants. It appears that apart And might facilitate researchers to address the
from cellulose, microorganisms comprise around anthropological damages present in the
90% of the biomass of the entire biosphere. ecosystems, small and large.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

3. Crucial but harmful to health

Humans have close associations with microbes. or even the immune reactions to them can
In spite of their massively advantageous effect on enhance the spread of the particular pathogen to
the environment, a minute dangerous set of a different host. Thus, causing illness is just
viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria might cause another ecological approach for particular
diseases. In the fight against illnesses, the human microbes-one in which the human body is
body tries to introduce a thin balance between employed as a habitat for transmission,
viruses and microbes that are beneficial to health persistence, and multiplication.
and those that harm human bodies.
Disease emergence-the case where a new
pathogenic virus or microbe is identified or an old
Over 90% of the human cells comprise microbes
one causes a new illness-is a trending subject
like fungi and bacteria which are present in
nowadays. With the transformation from E.coli
orifices such as mouth, skin, and so on.
strain O157 into SARS, new pathogens & illnesses
Microorganisms maintain benign or even
are discovered each and every year, dreading the
symbiotic relationships with the human body
people and confounding the public health
organs, produce necessary nutrients, and allow
authorities accounting for reducing the wave of
efficient digestion in the human stomach. Human
pandemics. Several situations probably serve a
mental and physical health is influenced by the
role in the elevated disease emergence rate,
presence of microbes. In studies, it has been
including a number of social, environmental, and
observed that sterile animals are notably less
host factors
healthy compared to those with naturally
colonized microbes

How microbes cause ailments? Viruses and 4. Beneficial to medicine & industry
pathogenic microbes have a unique ecological
approach that determines where they hit and Medicine and industry are more dependent on
what effects these microbes have on the host microbes to produce enzymes, antibiotics, and
organism. One major issue is that pathogens chemicals that save lives and ameliorate
colonize human body parts that immune systems humankind. Microbes are currently cultured with
consider as privileged. In the process of acquiring molecular biology tools for the production of all
access to these areas or in sustaining their kinds of new things like biodegradable plastics.
colonies, viruses and microbes might cause harm Biotechnology uses viruses and microbes in
to human tissues, generating symptoms and various ways like gene therapy, genetic tailoring
signs of disease. Ailments might even start when of crops.
the immune system identifies a virus or microbial
cell. Microbiology studies have facilitated these bright
technologies, and modern advancements in
The human body’s immune system reacts with a
microorganisms in medicine and industry depend
strike on the extrinsic entity that might cause
upon performing effective research nowadays.
damage to the body itself. In few situations, the
harm caused by pathogens present in human
tissues

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Branches of
Microbiology

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1. Protozoology: Protozoology is the study of 11. Systems microbiology: System microbiology

protozoa which are protists similar to animals is a study of microbiology & systems biology. It
plays a role in linking the two fields.
2. Bacteriology: Bacteriology is the study
12. Molecular microbiology: Molecular
pertaining to biochemistry, genetics, ecology,
microbiology, belonging to pure microbiology is
and morphology of bacteria.
the study concerning molecular concepts of
3. Mycology: Mycology deals with the study of
physiological processes within microbes
infection or toxicity, benefits (uses for
13. Phylogeny: Phylogeny is another branch
entheogens, food, traditional medicine, and
under pure microbiology which deals with the
tinder), taxonomy, biochemical & genetic
genetic associations between various kinds of
properties of fungi. An individual who
organisms.
specializes in the field of mycology is referred
14. Microbial physiology: Microbial physiology
to as a mycologist.
deals with the biochemical functioning of
4. Algology/Phycology: This field studies algae. microbial cells. This involves the study of microbial
5. Immunology: Immunology is a pure cell structure, microbial metabolism, and
microbiology branch that is a study concerning microbial growth. This discipline is also under
the immune systems in all kinds of living pure microbiology.
organisms. 15. Environmental microbiology or microbial
ecology: This is the study of the relationship of
6. Virology: Virology is another field of pure
microbes with each other and their environment.
microbiology that explores all kinds of viruses.
This discipline is under pure microbiology as well.
7. Nematology: Nematology also belongs to Microbial genetics: This discipline of pure
pure microbiology wherein roundworms or microbiology is the study of gene organization
nematodes are studied. and regulation in microbes with respect to their
8. Microbial cytology: Microbial cytology deals cellular roles. This discipline is closely associated
with the submicroscopic and microscopic with molecular biology.
elements of microbes. This also belongs to 16 Cellular microbiology: Cellular microbiology
pure microbiology. is a branch that links cell biology and microbiology.

9. Evolutionary microbiology: Evolutionary 17.Parasitology: Parasitology comes under pure

microbiology is a study of microbial evolution. microbiology. This is the study concerning parasites,
This discipline is categorized into two their hosts, and the association between them.
components: Microbial systematics (genetic
relationship & diversity of microbes) and 18. Medical microbiology: Medical microbiology
Microbial taxonomy (classification & naming is the study of pathogenic microorganisms, their
of microbes). function in human diseases, epidemiology, and
so on.
10. Generation microbiology: Generation
19. Pharmaceutical microbiology:
microbiology is a discipline that deals with
microbes having the same traits as their Pharmaceutical microbiology is the study

parents. This field also comes under pure concerning microorganisms responsible for the

microbiology. production of pharmaceutical products like

vaccines, vitamins, enzymes, antibiotics, and so
on.
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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

20. Industrial microbiology: Industrial

25. Soil microbiology: Soil microbiology is the
microbiology is the study of microbes for
study of soilborne microbes.
application in industrial processes. For instance,
26. Veterinary microbiology: Veterinary
it is regarding wastewater treatment and
microbiology is the study of the microbial role in
industrial fermentation.
animal taxonomy or veterinary medicine.
21. Microbial biotechnology: Microbial
27. Environmental microbiology:
biotechnology is the study of engineering
Environmental microbiology deals with the
microbes at the molecular and genetic level to
diversity and function of microbes within their
produce beneficial products.
natural environments. This discipline is
22. Food microbiology: Food microbiology is
additionally branched into bioremediation,
the study of microbes that cause foodborne
microbial diversity, geomicrobiology, microbe
diseases and food spoilage.
mediated nutrient cycling, and microbial ecology.
23. Agricultural microbiology: Agricultural
Water microbiology: Water microbiology is the
microbiology is the study of microbes pertinent
study of waterborne microbes.
to agriculture.
28. Aero microbiology: Aeromicrobiology is the
24. Plant microbiology: Plant microbiology is
study of airborne microbes.
the study of interactions between plant
pathogens, plants, and microbes.

Basic
Microbiology
Techniques
Microbiology-related techniques are those which
are employed for studying microbes like protists,
fungi, and bacteria. Mainly these include
techniques for manipulation, engineering,
staining, identification, culturing, and surveying
of microbes. Knowledge about different
microbiological methodologies is extremely
crucial as microorganisms is a vital part of our
life.

General knowledge of cellular functioning has

evolved from the study of microbes. Apart from
that microbiology is an applied science assisting These include both negative and positive effects.
expanding biotechnology sector, medicine & Few are accountable for several potential illnesses
health, environmental sector, and agriculture as in humans and other living things whereas few
well. Microorganisms have major significance in others are employed for the benefit of our
our daily lives. environment.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

They have their application in many things such

Culture techniques
as beverage manufacturing, food product, and so
• Streak plate technique
on. Microbiology and its basic methodologies are
• Pour plate & spread plate culture technique
linked to few other science fields such as
• Enrichment culture technique
biogeochemistry, soil science, organic chemistry,
molecular biology, evolution, genetics, plant Techniques in storage & maintenance
physiology, and so on. The fundamental • Lyophilization
techniques present in microbiology are listed • Subcultivation
below.
Techniques for microbial identification
Techniques employed for studying bacterial
• Antimicrobial sensitivity techniques
growth
• Motility test
• Microbiological media
• Biochemical tests
• Sterilization
• Staining
• Inoculation
• Incubation

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Educational
Requirements

Microbiology adepts require a Mcrobiologists generally require a Ph.D., to

minimum of B.Sc. in microbiology or perform independent work and research in
any allied discipline that provides universities and colleges. Graduate students
relevant coursework in microbiology undergoing studies in microbiology predominantly
like cell biology or biochemistry. specialize in sub-disciplines like immunology or
Several colleges and universities provide degrees bacteriology. Ph.D. coursework generally involves
in subjects like microbiology and other biological theoretical classes, research in laboratories, and
science fields. dissertation or thesis completion.

Many microbiology majors take core courses in For starting a career in microbiology, one must
microbial physiology & microbial genetics and opt physics, chemistry & biology (PCB) streams in
elective courses in virology & environmental higher secondary or class 12. They have to score
microbiology. Candidates must additionally take a minimum of 50% in class 12 to take up higher
classes in other sciences like physics, chemistry, education specialized in microbiology. Normally,
and biochemistry as it is crucial for microbiologists there is no entrance examination for
to have an extensive understanding of the undergraduate-level educational programs in
sciences. Programs in computer science, biology or microbiology.
mathematics, and statistics are important for
microbiologists since they might require to do
intricate data analysis

It is crucial for prospective microbiologists to

have hands-on experience in laboratories prior
to their workforce entry. Most undergraduate TOUGH NET
programs in microbiology include an obligatory
Question
laboratory requirement, however, extra
laboratory coursework is advised. Students even bank
can acquire valuable lab experience through
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manufacturing companies.

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Eligibility

• For undergraduate programs (B.Sc. in

Microbiology): Candidates must clear class 12
with at least 50% marks.
• For M.Sc. in Microbiology: Students must have
an undergraduate degree (B.Sc.) in Botany/
Zoology/ Biology/ Microbiology.
• For M.Phil or Ph.D. in microbiology or allied
sciences: Students must have a graduation
degree (M.Sc.) in the pertinent subject.

NOTE: The majority of the universities conduct

entrance examinations for Masters, M.Phil, and
Ph.D. programs

Microbiologist Training

Most under graduation programs in Microbiology

have laboratory coursework as part of the
curriculum. However, experience in the lab is very
much important to get hired by good companies
or research institutes. The lab experience in
which you gain from colleges or universities might
not be enough to excel in this domain, as this is a
highly competitive discipline.

Internships are the best way to acquire more lab

experience. There are plenty of internships
available for microbiologists. In most colleges, it
is mandatory to do an internship during the
academic year or course. Usually, internships are
offered during summer and winter vacation, so
that it does not disrupt your coursework.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

What does a
Microbiologist do?

Microbiologists study the microorganisms that They use advanced technologies and equipment
cause infections and environmental damage and to carry out research on microorganisms. They are
microbes that are beneficial to human welfare, also responsible for developing best practices and
including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. methods for routine sampling and research
Microbiologists concentrate on the identification The roles and responsibilities vary based on
and growth of these microorganisms to better the job profile. However, we have enlisted
comprehend their characteristics that might help some of the general responsibilities of a
in the diagnosis, therapy, and prevention of microbiologist.
contagious diseases caused by microbes.

Microbiologists study
the microorganisms that
cause infections and
environmental damage

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

• Adhere to SOPs and other guidelines, while • Check out all issues and prevent any GMP
working in a laboratory. issues on samples.
• Isolate and maintain cultures of microbes for • Present study outcomes to scientists,
study. nonscientist officials, other co-workers, and

• Plan and carry out experiments, like improving the general populace.

sterilization procedures or developing new • Maintain detailed records and conduct tests on

drugs to combat infectious diseases. all activities carried out in the lab.
• Conduct experiments that are used in the
• Identify and classify microbes found in samples
diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
obtained from humans, animals, plants, or the
• Supervise the work of biological technicians
environment.
and other workers and assess the accuracy of
• Track environmental microbe development.
their outcomes.
• Monitor the impact of microbes on humans,
animals, plants, other microbes, or the
environment.
• Develop new pharma products including
vaccines, drugs, etc.
• Collect samples from various locations.
• Record, analyze, and interpret the data.
• Compose research papers, reports, and
reviews.
• Be updated with current scientific and research
developments.
• Maintain high health and safety standards.
• Conduct quality control processes to avoid
contamination.
• Manage and carry out tests on different
microbiological activities regularly.
• Develop and maintain validation in all
procedures for different environmental
controls.
• Conduct laboratory analysis on all materials
after proper sterilization.
• Monitor all physiological and morphological Premium Study Material
features and identify microorganisms. for CSIR NET Exam
• Perform tests on all incoming ingredients and
document all reports.
• Create and prepare reports for all protocols.
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• Develop different screening procedures for all
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raw materials and tools and monitor all end
products

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Working
Environment

Working conditions for microbiologists vary Microbiologists have to take precautions to prevent
depending upon where you work. Microbiologists samplings from being contaminated and to keep
normally work in labs, industries, and offices where harmful microbes from replicating uncontrollably.
they carry out experiments on microbes and assess Microbiologists should have the ability to work
the outcomes, and they keep regular office hours. independently as well as in a team
Some microbiologists may conduct onsite visits or

“
collect samples from the environment or worksites,
and might also travel occasionally

Microbiologists have to collect specimens of water,

soil, and other substances that have microbes. The The weekly working
weekly working hours for most of the microbiologists
hours for most of the
will vary from 40-45 hours/week. However, the
working hours are based on the sector or company microbiologists will
in which you work. For instance, microbiologists vary from 40-45

“
working in the teaching domain may have different
working hours. Microbiologists are also expected to
hours/week.
stay up to date with the most recent findings of
other scientists.

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Skills Required

• Logical thinking - Logical thinking enables you • Interpersonal skills - Microbiologists normally
to make better, more informed choices. work with research teams and hence must
Microbiologists draw inferences from test work well with others toward a common
results through solid reasoning and analysis. objective. They should also be able to inspire
• Leadership - A leader who works well with and guide other team members.
other members - both within his/her own team • Math skills - Microbiologists regularly use
and across departments can help spread intricate mathematical equations and formulas
knowledge and resources, establish new in their work. So, they should have a broad
leaders, and add to a company’s success. understanding of math, including calculus and
• Good writing and communication skills - statistics.
Microbiologists must be able to efficiently • Observation skills - Microbiologists must
communicate their research study procedures regularly monitor their experiments. They need
and outcomes to ensure so that your findings to maintain a full, accurate record of their work,
may be used appropriately. noting conditions, procedures, and results.
• Excellent IT skills - Information technology • Perseverance - Microbiological study entails
plays an important part in assessing data, drug significant experimentation, and
designing, generating research data, and a lot microbiologists should not be dissuaded in
more. So having at least basic IT skills is a must. their work.
• Team working skills - Most work will require • Time-management skills - Microbiologists
you to work with other people at times, so you generally need to meet deadlines while carrying
should be a good team player. out research studies and experiments. They
• Problem-solving skills - Microbiologists utilize should know how to manage time and prioritize
scientific experiments and analysis to tasks efficiently while maintaining their quality
determine the solutions to intricate scientific of work.
problems, making problem-solving skills a
must for every microbiologist.
• Detail-oriented - Microbiologists should have
the ability to carry out scientific experiments
and analyses with precision

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Courses in
Microbiology

Here is the list of courses

that one can pursue in the field of microbiology
Under graduation Courses (Duration of Post graduation Courses (Duration of
these courses is 3 years) these courses is 2 years)

• BSc Microbiology • MSc Microbiology

• BSc Applied Microbiology • MSc Applied Microbiology
• BSc Industrial Microbiology • MSc Medical Microbiology
• BSc Food Technology • MSc Microbial Genetics and Bioinformatics
• BSc Clinical Microbiology

Specializations in Microbiology
• Agricultural Microbiology
• Industrial Microbiology
• Aquatic Microbiology
• Pharmaceutical Microbiology
• Food microbiology
• Virology
• Evolutionary Microbiology
• Nano Microbiology
• Microbial Genetics
• Cellular Microbiology
• Soil Microbiology
• Generation Microbiology
• Environmental Microbiology
• Veterinary Microbiology
• Immunology
• Biogeochemistry
• Microbial Pathogenesis
• Microbial Physiology
• Bioinformatics

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Top Universities
and Colleges for
Microbiology

Indian universities and Global universities for

colleges for Microbiogy Microbiology
• University of Delhi, New Delhi • Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
• University of Madras, Chennai • Imperial College London, England
• Indian Institute of Science Education and • University of Tokyo, Japan
Research, Pune • University of California, Berkeley
• Bangalore University, Bengaluru • Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
• Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune • University of Cambridge, England
• University of Calcutta, Kolkata • The University of Queensland, Brisbane,
• University of Mumbai, Mumbai Australia
• Amity University • Massachusetts Institute of Technology,
• Pondicherry University, Pondicherry Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar • University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Pradesh • McGill University, Montreal, Canada
• St. Xavier’s College • University of Oxford, England
• Fergusson College, Pune • Erasmus University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Madras Christian College, Chennai • University of Copenhagen, Denmark
• Seoul National University, South Kore

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Salary

In India, the average income of a If you are working with the government or private
Microbiologist is around 2-3 lakhs annually organizations, you will certainly get a decent
If you are working with the government or private income along with the perks and various other
organizations, you will certainly get a decent advantages.
income along with the perks and various other Salary may also vary depending on many aspects
advantages. such as organization, sector, job profile, location,
and so on. As mentioned earlier, experience
A Microbiologist with a master’s or Ph.D. degree
matters a lot in this domain. Hands-on experience
along with ample experience will get an excellent
will help you to outshine in this competitive field.
salary package in both government and private
Experienced microbiologist usually gets highly paid
industries.

In India, the average

income of a
Microbiologist is
around 2-3 lakhs
annually

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Job Profiles

• Research Assistant
• Food, Industrial or Environmental
Microbiologists
• Quality controllers
• Quality Assurance Technologists
• Sales or Technical Representative
• Clinical and Veterinary Microbiologists
• Medical Technologists
• Associate Research Scientist
• Scientific writers
• Patent lawyers

Employment Areas

• Agriculture Department
• Biotechnology Companies
• Chemical Industries
• Beverage Industry
• Food Industry
• Environmental Agencies
• Research Organisations
• Contract Research Organization
• Private Hospitals
• Laboratories
• Universities
• Pharmaceutical Industries

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Top Employers

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Resume for
Microbiologists

Writing a perfect resume can be difficult. You

should customize it to fit a certain job profile, don’t
use the same resume while applying for different
job roles. Composing an ideal microbiologist
resume can take hours, days, even weeks.
According to few studies, the employers usually
spend just 5-7 seconds looking at a single resume.
So you just get around 6 seconds time to make an
impression with your resume.

No matter whether you are an experienced

microbiologist or an entry-level microbiologist,
your intention should be to make sure the resume
captures all the important points that are
demanded in the particular job role.

Five important resume tips for a microbiologists job

• Relevant Experience: Ensure that the jobs, louder than a high GPA, specifically if you can
experience, and accolades that you have are quantify your achievement with a number.
relevant to the job position you are looking for • Unique Qualities: Employers look at numerous

• Appropriate Skills: Use the keywords found in resumes. Compose your resume in such a way

the job description while writing your resume. that it stands out from the crowd, and make

For instance, if the employer is looking for sure you don’t sound monotonous.

someone who has experience in lap equipment, • Strong content: If you have had many jobs,
make sure that you mention your experience/ you need not list each of them. Your resume
certification in lab equipment as a skill. should be designed to market you to a potential

• Quantifiable Achievements: Accomplishments employer, so pick the best content.

and awards related to the job position speak

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Pros of being a Microbiologist Cons of being a Microbiologist

• Most of the Research & Development of • The job market is highly competitive. This can

bioscience companies require microbiologists. be overcome to an extent by constant skill

development and updation.
• Microbiology-related work generally allows for
flexibility in working conditions. • Working in a microbiology lab often exposes
you to harmful elements, hazardous chemicals,
• Microbiologists always have lucrative career
radiation, highly infectious microorganisms,
opportunities in several industries like medical,
etc. By taking proper precautions and following
healthcare, beverage, and food industries.
laboratory guidelines, one can take adequate
• Microorganisms have existed for millions of care in this aspect.
years, and no doubt will exist for millions more.
This means that microbiologists always have a
career, no matter how the world changes.

• There are so many microbiology branches that

you can specialize in and have no dearth of job
opportunities.

• You can rest assured that even though microbial

techniques are similar in many instances, the
kind of work you do will never seem
monotonous. You could be dealing with a new
organism, a new protein of the same organism,
or even a completely different environment
which may be clinical, ecological, agricultural,
industrial, etc. The diversity in this marvelous
field is reflected in your daily life when you’re a
microbiologist.

• Nearly every important field involving even a

bit of the life sciences holds lucrative options
for the employment of a microbiologist who
can thus easily shift between healthcare, R&D,
food and beverage, FMCG, etc.
The disadvantages
associated with the
• A research career would always be an option
for a microbiologist who can build on skills and
never stop learning in this ever-evolving and job of a microbiologist
advancing field.
are few and can be
• Career development would rarely be a problem
for a microbiologist when there are so many overcome with some
specializations that can be mastered in the effort and care.
field.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Future Prospects
in the field of Microbiology

Microbiology is an extremely vast field with a diverse range of subfields that branch out into various
other fields and provide access to several interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary fields. A microbiologist
has ample options to grow in their career in various ways that not only increase their knowledge of the
field but allow them to apply it as well. Some of the most exciting and vital prospects of microbiology
that dominate the present and future include

Drug Discovery - It is of the greatest

importance to find the best and most
efficient drugs against pathogenic bacteria,
viruses, fungi, etc., to surpass infections
that threaten life on Earth. One crucial
problem is the emergence of antibiotic
resistance. MDR (Multiple Drug-Resistant)
organisms are the most notorious
pathogens that contribute to several
nosocomial (hospital-borne) infections and
prompt the discovery of heavily-loaded
antibiotics, which ultimately cause various
adverse events in the patient.

Pandemic - Microbiology and

pharmaceuticals are the most relevant
scientific fields right now, and the whole
world is looking to microbiologists and
pharmacists for solutions. The Bubonic
plague wiped out nearly half of Europe, and
a few years ago, swine flu was prevalent
everywhere. Here’s where microbiology is
approached for comprehending the basic
properties of the infectious microorganism,
its pathogenesis, etc., to find the best ways
to treat the resulting disease and prevent
its spread.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Pharming - This refers to using microbes for drug

Bioremediation - This century has seen the
development which was earliest seen during the
discovery of many environmentally significant
discovery of antibiotics. Now, it is used in the
microorganisms which can carry out
production of synthetic hormones,
bioremediation using clearing oil spills
biotransformation, etc.
(Pseudomonas putida), eating plastic (Ideonella
Phage therapy - Researchers have found a way to
sakaiensis), and degrading phenolic acid
treat bacterial infections using bacteriophages. It
(Paraburkholderia madseniana sp. nov.), among
cannot be used in prophylaxis, but one cannot
others.
ignore the remarkable uses of phage therapy.

CRISPR / Cas9 - This has been discovered as a

vital immunity asset in bacteria to protect
themselves from bacteriophages. These unique
molecular scissors enable gene editing and thus
have many potential therapeutic applications.
Although several legal and ethical issues surface
along with it, there’s no doubt that CRISPR
technology is the future of gene therapy.

Clustered regular interspaced

short palindromic repeats

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Plant diseases - Plants hold a highly notable Astrobiology - Extra-terrestrial life has always
position as primary nutrition providers that been a subject of speculation and excitement.
humans have successfully utilized via agriculture. Several bacteria can survive in outer space, like
Therefore, advancements in the diagnosis and Deinococcus radiodurans fuelling this research
eco-friendly treatment of plant diseases prioritize that could just enable the discovery of life on other
farmers, agriculturists, and microbiologists. planets.

Synthetic biology - This is a highly advanced

aspect of biology that enables scientists to
synthesize tissues, organs, or even organisms,
which is often made possible by genetically
modifying and testing microorganisms. Apart from
the ethical and economic hurdles it faces, synthetic
biology could just be the future of life sciences.

Bio weaponry - Microorganisms are the most

potent weapons used discretely to create a
devastating amount of damage. It is therefore of
utmost importance to control and manage
pathogens that are potential bioweapons

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

How the Importance of Microbiology to Society

has changed ?
The general public is currently more familiar with • The emergence of knowledge that certain
microbes and infections than at any other period genetically conferred chronic diseases have a
of time. This may be owing to an increased microbial background.
awareness of the effects of diseases and, more • The rising evolution of microorganisms against
importantly, the coronavirus pandemic. The antibiotics and disinfectants leads to more
following are the prominent changes and their lethal and contagious diseases.
reasons:
• Events of large-scale food contamination have
• People realize the importance of health and come to the attention of public officials and the
hygiene. There has been a rise in government general public, necessitating vital food and
policies that promote toilets’ construction, drug-regulating laws.
menstrual hygiene, prenatal and neonatal
health, etc.

• Prevalence of “Microbophobia” due to hyped-up

media coverage that not only reports health-
related events but also often exaggerates
them. This serves to increase awareness, but
one cannot deny the fuelling of public fear due
to such reports. This has created a surge in the
popularity of hand sanitizers, antimicrobial
soaps, disinfectants, etc., to protect ourselves
from diseases.

• Fear of biological warfare and the possibility of

innocent civilians, livestock, and crops facing Biotecnika’s
deadly bacterial and viral infections by human
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• The emergence of novel diseases from
microorganisms like the Ebola virus, Dengue, Get Certified
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made society aware of microbes and their
effects. architect of
• The rise in public awareness about AIDS, your future
tuberculosis being battled by conventional and
advanced treatment strategies.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

How is Research in Microbiology Changing?

Research trends in science change with the the microorganism is no longer examined in its
needs and demands of society and the changing isolated condition but as part of a teeming
world in terms of the environment and other ecosystem with various visible and invisible factors
organisms in the ecosystems. Newer discoveries governing the growth, survival, and multiplication
in recent years have been exciting and dynamic. of microorganisms.
Some of them are:
This way, the ecological aspects of microbiological
research gained prominence
1 .Less Reductionism, More Synthesis

Microbiology once exclusively concentrated on Another point is that practically no one can say
specific microbes cultured isolatedly under that every organism on the planet is the same as it
synthetic conditions trying to theorize disease was a million or even 200 years ago. Some
comprehension and its environment from slight microorganisms, especially pathogenic ones,
monitoring recorded in the labs. However, a undergo such subtle mutations with changing
majority of scientific research is diverting the environmental conditions that the total effect may
attention from reductionism to approaches that be highly noticeable even within a span of 5-10
promote synthesis. years.

This enables the scientists to obtain an integral All organisms strive to survive and let their species
idea of the microorganism’s activities by adapt to environmental modifications. As
observing the microbe itself, its environment, mentioned earlier, one of the most significant
and other organisms’ effects. effects of this is seen in the form of antibiotic
resistance. Therefore, there is no other way to
The idea of cells being governed by certain
consider the possibility of mutation and subsequent
proteins and their interactions is the central
evolution, even in forms as minuscule as
concept currently. Microbial environments are
microorganisms.
now treated as complex networks amalgamating
several factors including related processes, 3.Technological Advancements
compartments, and feedback, emphasizing the
importance of research at a systems level.
Technology has been the biggest game-changer in
every field, including microbiology. Not only do we
2. Evolution and Ecology Emphasized in
have sophisticated equipment designed to isolate
Research
and culture microorganisms, but the major
Earlier, microbiological research was pretty development has also been seen in the case of
much streamlined towards the properties and disease diagnosis. The diagnosis was once solely
applications of microorganisms for various based on culturing and biochemical tests.
purposes. Researchers have realized the Molecular methods of experimentation in
importance of fusing two or more fields for a microbiology have proved to be the greatest
wider perspective leading to more innovative advantage here.
and feasible solutions. Moreover,

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Now diseases and the presence of certain microbes Other technologies contributing to amazing
can not only be confirmed with surity, but it also research are nanotechnology, high-end imaging
takes very little time. The latest advancements techniques, advanced biochemical testing via
have been made by whole genome sequencing, HPLC, GLC, etc., and molecular methods that utilize
next-generation genome sequencing, and PCR and other genomic and proteomic techniques
bioinformatics. Bioinformatics techniques have
completely revolutionized research in microbiology
by introducing advanced culture-independent
methods.

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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Trending Topics In
Microbiology

1. Environmental genomics and metagenomics 2. Biocomplexity

The small genome of microorganisms makes them Biocomplexity refers to the interactions of
viable for sequencing, and the field has faced a microorganisms amongst themselves and the
huge impact courtesy of genomics. Using the latest environment.
technology, the genome of nonculturable bacteria This means that microbiological research not only
can now be sequenced easily by environmental requires the knowledge of the field itself but
genomics, where the sample is directly sequenced involves the works of scientists in several other
for qualitative and quantitative microbial testing. fields such as soil scientists, marine biologists,
Scientists have recently realized that genomics, ecologists, zoologists, botanists, hydrologists, etc.
but the metagenomics of an organism also plays a
This calls for an integrative approach to
major role in the survivability, functioning, and
understanding the microbiological aspects,
adaptability, making it as important to consider an
keeping in mind the intricate involvement of all
organism’s metagenomics.
other fields for a microbial ecosystem’s smooth
This is reflected in current research where the cell and stable functioning.
is seen as a whole ecosystem with each organelle
3. Infectious diseases
playing a role. This includes the interplay of genes
and proteins Infectious diseases as a research trend in
microbiology are certainly not new. However, one
must keep in mind that this trend will never go
away as long as plants, humans, and other animals
are affected by microbes’ existence.

Conducting exciting research to improve the

quality of human life would always be a priority for
microbiologists. Added to that, humankind has
been facing a whole new level of diseases with
pathogens mutating and evolving. This means that
the world needs more skilled and dynamic
microbiology researchers to analyze, comprehend
and resolve modern health problems
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MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

4.Deciphering the origins and history of life harmful items such as replacing plastic with
bioplastic, biotransformation for the production
Since microorganisms, extremophilic
of useful steroids, etc.
microorganisms, are very close to primordial forms
of life, extensive research is conducted to decipher Agricultural research that utilizes the biotechnology

the nature and properties of those ancient beings. approach in microbiology has enabled disease-

Since it is widely speculated that eukaryotes arose resistant, drought-resistant, pesticide & weedicide-

from the prokaryotes we so dearly love, this forms resistant, and insect-resistant crops to be

a robust base for understanding the origin of life. produced. Not only this, but the incorporation of
biotechnology has allowed for more nutritious
5. Engineering microbes food to be produced, taking a step towards solving
world hunger.
Biotechnology has contributed to the majority of
microbiology research in recent years. With its Other Hot Topics in Microbiology Research
advanced technology and innovative approaches,
biotechnology enables the engineering of • Development and designing of novel drugs
microorganisms to benefit humanity. This is seen • Vaccine development for currently prevalent
in nearly every biological field, including medicine, diseases
pha\rmaceuticals, agriculture, commercial
• Cancer therapy research using microbes as
commodities industry, food, beverage industry,
drug delivery agents or for feasible testing
etc.
• Antimicrobial resistance
• Understanding the physiology of unculturable
microbes
• Discovering the survival mechanisms of
microbes in extreme conditions
• Exploring the differences between microbes in
the same population and the factors causing
them
• Microbe-host interactions to figure out ways to
overcome its harmful effects and harness the
positive outcomes of such interactions
• Unraveling the mystery of organisms crossing
It is most significantly seen in medicine and the species barrier.
agriculture that changing just a few bases in the • Comprehending the use of primary and
microbial genome results in extraordinary secondary metabolites of microorganisms
capabilities being conferred to these tiny beings.
• Analyzing microbial mutations and their effects
The best example is the use of E.coli for insulin
on humans
production, which has saved millions of lives so
• Examining the facilitation of gene flux caused
far. Other examples are using microbes for vaccine
by microbes
development, bioremediation, bio-based
• Microbial impacts on climate change
production of environmentally

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 MICROBIOLOGY CAREER GUIDE

Future Challenges
in Microbiology

• Technological hurdles - Scientists should Cultivation - Several microbial species exist in

embrace technology in their microbiology unreachable environments and even if they are
research and keep striving for beneficial accessed, culturing them in a lab for the study is
technological advancements that enable better a matter of major concern. In fact, we lack the
results in an experiment with minimal effort. ability to scrutinize a large number of microbes

• Genomics - Molecular nature of microbes is simply because of the difficulties faced in

ever-evolving, and the determination of a culturing them, owing to their complex nutritional

microbe’s genomic aspects might result in requirements or their unique habitats.

exemplary secrets being unraveled. However,

more reliable methods for faster and easier Diagnostics - Research on infectious diseases is

genomic studies must be developed. the most important part of biology. Researchers,
doctors, and diagnostic experts today face the
• Study of singular cells - Microorganisms are
challenge of finding reliable, fast, and economical
nearly always studied as a colony. Advanced
solutions to diagnose infections, especially
microscopic and molecular techniques can
during crucial times of an epidemic or a pandemic.
enable more detailed research on a single cell.

Databases - As mentioned earlier, bioinformatics

and computational biology play a major role in
microbiology research. However, millions of
microbes can be sequenced and modified

KONCEPT digitally for experimentation, and this needs a

huge database that can hold all that information.
TABLE Scientists are yet to find a satisfactory solution
for the problem of lack of data storage space.
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