Microbiologists
Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and some types of parasites.
Is microbiologists a good career?
It scores 21/100 and ranks #275 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($87,990 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What microbiologists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. microbiologists earn between $67,100 and $122,350 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live microbiologists jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow as fast as average through 2034.
Education
Microbiologists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a related field, such as biology.
Microbiology study includes courses such as microbial genetics, environmental microbiology, and virology. Students also may be required to take courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
Undergraduate microbiology programs typically include laboratory experience, which helps students learn how to work with the equipment they will encounter on the job. Students also may gain laboratory and other practical experience by participating in internships.
A master’s degree or Ph.D. may be helpful or required for some positions. Graduate programs allow students to learn more complex topics or focus on an area of specialization, such as bacteriology or immunology. Degree requirements vary, but Ph.D. programs usually include completing a thesis or dissertation.
Training
After completing their studies, Ph.D. holders often enter postdoctoral research positions. Postdoctoral work involves developing a broader understanding of a specialization, which typically culminates in publication of their research findings.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Some employers prefer to hire microbiologists who have earned certification, which is typically not required otherwise. Microbiologist certifications are available for a variety of specialties.
Advancement
Some microbiologists move into managerial positions, often as natural sciences managers. Others become postsecondary teachers, which typically requires a Ph.D. and postdoctoral research experience.
Important qualities
Communication skills. Microbiologists must be able to effectively communicate the results of their research, both orally and in writing.
Detail oriented. Microbiologists must conduct scientific experiments and analyses with precision, including monitoring and recording the conditions, processes, and results of their work.
Interpersonal skills. Microbiologists often work on research teams and must collaborate with others. They also lead research projects, which may involve managing technicians.
Logical-thinking skills. Microbiologists draw conclusions from experiments by using reasoning and judgment to interpret the results.
Perseverance. Microbiologists must persist in the trial-and-error demands of research. They should be motivated to avoid becoming discouraged in their work.
Problem-solving skills. Microbiologists conduct experiments and analyze results to find solutions to scientific problems.
Related occupations
How much do microbiologists make?
The national median wage is $87,990 a year, with the middle half earning between $67,100 and $122,350 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is microbiologists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 21 of 100 and ranks #275 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +4.1% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a microbiologist?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do microbiologists earn the most?
Among states, Massachusetts pays the highest median ($122,350). Local pay for every state and metro is below.