microbiologist/references/tasks.md

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.