As a microbiologist, you could:
You could work at a university or in a laboratory.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
You can join the Microbiology Society to get professional recognition, find training opportunities and make new contacts.
You can get more advice about working in microbiology from the Microbiology Society and Health Careers.
To become a microbiologist, you could do a degree in:
Some degree courses include an integrated master's qualification like MBiol or MSci. You'll usually have more time for independent research and they're designed to lead directly onto further postgraduate study like a PhD.
If you want to work in the NHS as a microbiologist, you could apply to the Scientist Training Programme (STP) after your degree.
You'll train on the job, get paid a salary and receive a master's degree at the end.
You'll usually need:
You may be able to become a microbiologist by doing an apprenticeship, for example:
These apprenticeships can take between 3 and 5 years to complete.
You'll usually need:
You might be able to get into microbiology by working your way up from a laboratory technician.
You would need to study part time for a biological science degree or degree apprenticeship while you work.
You may improve your career prospects if you can get some work experience in a lab.
You can find opportunities with the NHS, as part of your degree course or by working during the holidays. Your university can also help you find volunteering opportunities.
You'll need:
With experience, you could:
In the NHS, you could progress to specialist, team manager and consultant.
