Microbiologists study microscopic organisms and analyze biological samples to understand disease, develop treatments, and solve problems in medicine and industry. You'll need a bachelor's degree and strong science skills. The work is detail-oriented and research-focused.
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Microbiologists examine bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microscopic organisms using laboratory equipment and computers. You analyze data from experiments, document findings carefully, and evaluate results against scientific standards. The work involves getting information from research, organizing complex studies, and planning investigations. You might develop new medicines, test food safety, or study disease transmission. Most of your time is spent in laboratories, working with samples and interpreting what they tell you about how organisms behave and interact.
Core work activities
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Microbiologists earn a median of $87,990 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 1,700 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related biological science. Your coursework covers biology, chemistry, mathematics, and computer skills. During your studies, you'll take lab courses that teach you hands-on techniques and how to use scientific equipment. Many programs include internships or research opportunities that let you work in real laboratories before you graduate. This preparation takes four years and gives you the foundation to start entry-level positions in research, quality control, or clinical settings.
Most microbiologists earn a bachelor's degree, though some pursue advanced degrees for research or specialized roles. The path is straightforward but requires commitment to science coursework. Use Pathly can map the microbiologist path that fits you to map out your education timeline and talk through your options with a counselor.
Many microbiologists must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You're drawn to investigative work that requires careful analysis and problem-solving. You enjoy working with data, reading deeply, and thinking critically about complex biological questions.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).