Microbiologist : Entry requirements

Entry generally requires a degree in a relevant subject, for example:

• microbiology;
• biological sciences;
• biology (specialising in microbiology);
• applied biology;
• molecular biology;
• microbial sciences;
• biomedical sciences.

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)  provides a list of first degree courses in microbiology. Courses such as biological sciences or applied biology provide a wide-ranging background prior to having to make choices about specialist areas.

The Higher Education Academy Microbiology Subject Profile  provides an overview of the provision of undergraduate and taught postgraduate microbiology programmes in higher education in the UK.

There are two main scientific occupations where microbiologists (who are not medically qualified) can work in a clinical setting: as a biomedical scientist and as a clinical scientist (or, in this specific context, a clinical microbiologist).

A degree in biomedical sciences is advisable, although not essential, for entry as a biomedical scientist in hospital medical microbiology laboratories. A list of accredited degree programmes is available through the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) . Biomedical scientists must hold the Certificate of Competence awarded by the IBMS and be registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC) . A new co-terminus route, which incorporates the necessary laboratory training for HPC registration, is also available. Graduates in other related science subjects taking an MSc in Microbiology can also specialise in this area.

As of 2011, in England and Wales, a new graduate entry Scientist Training Programme (STP) replaced the previous Clinical Scientist Training Scheme. The recruitment for the healthcare scientist training positions takes place early in the year for the September intake. Recruitment usually begins in February, with a closing date in mid-March.

NHS Trusts will offer 200 training posts in life sciences, physics and engineering and physiological sciences. Successful candidates will join a three-year training programme of workplace-based learning and a Masters degree in their specialist subject.

There is a single timetable for recruitment as well as national guidelines and assessment centres to ensure that all candidates are treated fairly and equally. Candidates can apply for the training posts at NHS Jobs  while the selection process is organised by local trusts.

Details of all training posts are available on NHS Jobs and will be advertised in the New Scientist . Further details of the scheme and a list of all the job roles are available at NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) .

Scotland is also adopting the new training programme but will still be recruiting by specialist subject, rather than on a national basis for the time being. Training will be provided by individual NHS boards. Details of each training scheme can be found at Clinical Scientist Pre-Registration Training Schemes Scotland  and New Scientist Jobs .

Pre-entry work experience in a laboratory can be difficult to get, but will be advantageous.

Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following employability skills:

• a good level of numeracy;
• IT skills;
• accuracy and a methodical approach;
• excellent written and oral communication;
• extremely high standards of health and safety.

Potential employers will often require you to have experience of good laboratory practice (GLP).

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI)  careers website provides a list of pharmaceutical companies offering summer work opportunities. Contact companies as early as possible. Otherwise, talk to hospital laboratories or your university careers service about gaining some voluntary experience.

The Society for General Microbiology (SGM)  offers grants to society members to fund penultimate-year undergraduate students undertaking a six to eight-week research project on a microbiological topic in the summer vacation. The closing date for applications is February. Applications should be made by academic supervisors, who must be SGM members. Further information is available from the SGM website.

The Society for Applied Microbiology (SFAM)  provides a Students into Work Scheme to enable students to gain a work placement of up to ten weeks. Society members must apply on behalf of a named student. Some companies provide funding to support research work in laboratories over the summer.

Becoming a member of a professional body, such as the SGM or the SfAM, will demonstrate commitment and provide valuable networking and career development opportunities.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.