You may be undertake studies in one, or a combination, of these. Postgraduate study is normally required for a research career. Most microbiologists are employed as diagnostic in clinical pathology laboratories in either private or public practice where they assist in determining the cause of a patient's disease, and carry out research into various diseases. There are also many opportunities in agricultural research, the dairy and food industry, and water and waste water laboratories. In the food industry, microbiologists may carry out research to create new products or be involved in the production, packaging and quality control of existing biodegradable products.
Some microbiologists investigate our water supply to ensure it is safe, ie.
In addition, a number of students proceed to higher postgraduate degrees in the courses ranging from immunology through to molecular biology, virology, biotechnology, general microbiology and microbial pathogenesis.