Microbiology

Microbiology is a massive domain with a wide variety of options. There are various specialisations and it is up to the candidate to choose their specialisation. Bacteriology, virology, immunology, medical microbiology, and food and dairy microbiology are popular areas worldwide.
Microbiologists ensure the food we eat is safe and provide solutions to tackle diseases that kill humans. Microbiology is a major contributor to biotechnology. The range of jobs available to microbiologists is as extensive as their work. Many medical and biotech companies invite microbiologists to join them.
Post-doctoral studies abroad have high recognition and yield good pay. Multinational companies, multi-specialty hospitals, food industries, and chemical and cosmetic industries hire microbiologists. Research-based careers suit candidates with a postgraduate and doctoral degree. Another interesting career in microbiology is a marine microbiologist.

Fundamentally, Microbiology courses impart knowledge on basic activities, living, and effects of microorganisms. The organisms include fungi, viruses, prions, prokaryotes, and protists. The immune system and immunology are studied in detail to know how diseases attack the human body.

Theoretical, as well as practical training, is imparted to candidates. This helps them to perform well in-patient care and prevent infectious diseases that bother society. Basic research is introduced to them in postgraduate studies so that they conduct fundamental and applied research.

Also, planning, executing, and teaching medical Microbiology is done. Postgraduate programmes are mostly self-directed and focus on clinical and academic work. A thesis is required to complete post-graduation.

Students pave the way for new approaches to fight diseases. All programmes in microbiology studies contain laboratory equipment. Internships provide quality experiences and win jobs from potential employers. Microbiologists specialise in understanding the characteristics and behaviour of microorganisms. Sometimes, they deal with harmful organisms for their research, and it tends to be hazardous. The required skill set to pursue a PG Diploma in Microbiology is:

• Abundant knowledge of science,
• Analytical, interpersonal, mathematical, speaking, and writing proficiency,
• Knowledge about how to use equipment like gas chromatography and electron microscopes,
• Laboratory skill,
• Critical thinking.

Due to the increasing demand for microbiology in almost every sector, advanced technologies are evolving through research. These are helping lives day-to-day solving life-threatening diseases and problems in the food industry. Clinical laboratory tests are progressing precisely because of recent inventions. Some new technologies in microbiology are:

• Molecular Methods- Molecular techniques used in microbiology involve the manipulation and analysis of DNA, RNA, protein, and lipids. The benefits of molecular methods are improved sensitivity of detection, specificity of identification, and reduced turnaround time.
• Nucleic Acid Sequencing- Nucleic acid sequencing is the method to determine the sequential arrangement of nucleic acid bases. This allows researchers to identify changes in genes, links with diseases, and identify potential drug targets.
• Digital PCR- Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction methods are used to directly expand and amplify nucleic acid strands like DNA, cDNA, or RNA. Some of its applications are liquid biopsy, rare sequence detection, and gene expression.

A bachelor's degree in Microbiology is recommended for applicants who are interested in learning about microorganisms and their behaviors. Candidates with a talent for research should enroll in this course because a career as a Microbiologist necessitates ongoing research. Additionally, candidates should be able to comprehend the importance of food security and the role that microbes play in the food production process.
Those who are ethical and driven ought to enroll in this course.Throughout the course, the student must demonstrate leadership and responsibility in a laboratory setting. Therefore, those who possess strong leadership qualities ought to enroll in the course.

BSc in Microbiology in India has a promising scope, with a range of career options and salaries. The average starting salary for a microbiologist in India is around INR 2.2 – 3 lakhs per annum. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, education level, industry, and location. For example, entry-level positions may pay INR 2.5 – 4.5 lakhs per annum, while experienced professionals may earn INR 5 – 10 LPA or more.

Some popular job profiles for microbiology graduates include:

• Microbiologist
• Virologist
• Biochemist
• Food microbiologist
• Geneticist
• Mycologist
• Parasitologist
• Food technologist

Research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science are some of the top industries for microbiology graduates.