Microbiologists
Microbiologists is an occupation catalogued under SOC 19-1022. The role reports a median annual salary of $87,330 in the US and is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Entry typically requires a Bachelor's degree, and shows moderate AI exposure (0.47 on a 0-1 scale) — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts. The most in-demand skills for the role include life sciences, microbiology-bacteriology, botany, medical mycology, biotechnology.
Top skills
Frequently asked questions
How much does Microbiologists earn?
The median annual salary for Microbiologists in the US is $87,330.
What is the job outlook for Microbiologists?
The role is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Current US employment is approximately 20,700 workers.
How do I become a microbiologists?
The typical entry education is a Bachelor's degree. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.
What skills does Microbiologists need?
The most in-demand skills for this role include life sciences, microbiology-bacteriology, botany, medical mycology, biotechnology, virology. These are the skills O*NET identifies as most important for competent performance.
Will AI replace Microbiologists?
Our AI-durability model gives Microbiologists a score of 0.47 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at moderate AI exposure — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts. Learning to work with AI tools rather than against them is the path forward.
How hard is it to enter this field?
Microbiologists has moderate barrier to entry — moderately gated — a bachelor's degree or equivalent training is typically required.
Is Microbiologists right for you?
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