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What is a typical day like as a microbiologist working in health?

After my science fair project this year, relating to household bacteria, I've become drawn to the idea of studying microbiology. I'd like to know what being a microbiologist who tests samples for hospitals is like. Anything else you'd like to tell me about would be greatly appreciated as well! #biology #healthcare #hospital-and-health-care #microbiology #cell-culture #career-details

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Elle’s Answer

Hi, Libbie! Good for you that you've identified an area you feel passionate about pursuing.


First, I recommend identifying your career path of interest by looking at the types of positions and industries where a degree in microbiology is relevant. The American Society for Microbiology is an excellent resource. Plus, they highlight a section on career-pathing. I've included a link to the their website directly to the career path section.

https://www.asm.org/index.php/career-paths-clinical-microbiology (copy and paste into a new web browser.)
There are many options so you'll want to narrow down what you want to do in microbiology and the industry (i.e., pharmaceutical, hospital, etc.) you'd like to work in. Feel free to look at several options- do not ever limit yourself. Once you decide, then look at a typical day. You should also try to speak to people in the industry and look for shadowing opportunities. You'll want several experiences shadowing different people in order to get a well-rounded view. Remember, where you start doesn't have to be where you finish. You can move from one side of the business to another as you grow and shift.


I hope this helps. Feel free to reach out with more questions.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for your response! I found the website link really helpful, especially with the questions around the bottom about determining whether or not I'd do well with pursuing that. I think that I've decided that I'd rather have a job with more direct interaction with patients and/or doctors/teams. Do you have any advice for a different part of the medical field I should go into? I have my heart sold on health but I know I'd probably go a little nuts being isolated and behind the scenes. I think I'd prefer to do something where I can really see my direct impact. What would you suggest? Libbie
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Frank’s Answer

There really is no typical day. You receive new specimens that must be initally plated. The next day you will see something growing on a plate. It will be up to you to determine what it is and which antibiotic should be used to treat it. There may be more than one organism and you will have to isolate it. Sometimes the amount of work can be overwhelming, but it is satisfying to know that you are helping to cure diseases.
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