# Tasks & work activities — microbiologist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-1022.00 (Microbiologists).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
- **[Core]** Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
- **[Core]** Develop new products and procedures for sterilization, food and pharmaceutical supply preservation, or microbial contamination detection.
- **[Core]** Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
- **[Core]** Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
- **[Core]** Observe action of microorganisms upon living tissues of plants, higher animals, and other microorganisms, and on dead organic matter.
- **[Core]** Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.
- **[Core]** Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
- **[Core]** Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant, and animal health.
- **[Core]** Prepare technical reports and recommendations, based upon research outcomes.
- **[Core]** Study the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues, cells, pathogens, and toxins.
- **[Core]** Use a variety of specialized equipment, such as electron microscopes, gas and high-pressure liquid chromatographs, electrophoresis units, thermocyclers, fluorescence-activated cell sorters, and phosphorimagers.
- **[Core]** Conduct chemical analyses of substances such as acids, alcohols, and enzymes.
- **[Supplemental]** Research use of bacteria and microorganisms to develop vitamins, antibiotics, amino acids, grain alcohol, sugars, and polymers.

## Detailed work activities

- Analyze biological samples.
- Analyze chemical compounds or substances.
- Classify organisms based on their characteristics or behavior.
- Cultivate micro-organisms for study, testing, or medical preparations.
- Develop new or advanced products or production methods.
- Examine characteristics or behavior of living organisms.
- Inspect condition of natural environments.
- Monitor environmental impacts of production or development activities.
- Operate laboratory or field equipment.
- Prepare biological samples for testing or analysis.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Research diseases or parasites.
- Research microbiological or chemical processes or structures.
- Supervise scientific or technical personnel.