Original PowerPoint Created By: Dr. Frank Flanders & Asha Wise Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office - April 2006 Modified By: Dr. Frank Flanders & Juliane Monko CTAE Resource Network Microbiology

The branch of biology that studies microorganisms and their effects on humans. What is Microbiology?

Microorganisms (microbes) are very small unicellular and multi-cellular life forms. They include algae, bacteria, fungi, protists, and viruses (the smallest microbes). Microorganisms

Microbiologist Microbiologists investigate the growth and characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. They can do everything from researching and teaching to developing new vaccines. Scientists are still discovering ways in which microbes, and the functions that they perform, affect our lives. We’ve even found ways to use microbes to our advantage, as with the process of bioremediation, which uses specific bacteria to consume and metabolize waste, such as in landfills and oil spills.

The job of a microbiologist, no matter what specific field they concentrate on, usually consists of three things: Research Development Prevention Microbiologist

Medicine Agriculture Military Food Science Teaching Veterinary Science Government Hospitals Private Companies Corporations Research Companies Military Schools Examples of Who Employs Microbiologists Examples of Where Microbiologists Work

Independent research Testing Working on specific projects Quality control monitoring Genetic engineering Writing grant proposals for research funding Presenting the results of an experiment, either in writing or speaking Job Duties & Responsibilities

Be able to work both independently and within a team Express a curiosity and interest in science Have effective communication skills, both oral and written Have a good memory Be observant Pay close attention to detail Have patience when working on long projects Have tenacity to get the job completed Qualities & Skills Needed

Median annual earnings of microbiologists is about $60,000 to $80,000 Highest 10% earned more than $110,000 Salary

Good vision for viewing in a microscope Excellent hand-eye coordination for handling lab equipment Physical stamina for collecting samples in nature Strong immune system, if working with dangerous microbes Physical Requirements

A Ph.D. is usually necessary for corporate research, industrial research, and college teaching, and for advancement to administrative positions. A master’s degree is sufficient for jobs in basic research, applied research or product development, management, or inspection. A bachelor’s degree (4 years) is adequate for non-research jobs. Many with a bachelor’s degree in microbiology enter medical, dental, veterinary, or other health profession schools. Education

People in the microbiology field can use microbes to develop solutions to a human health or agricultural problem. They can also focus on finding a solution to a microbe that causes disease. Looking To the Future