How to become a Microbiologist
Studies the growth and characteristics of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi and protozoa, and the effect they might have on plants, animals and the environment.
Main tasks
- Studies microorganisms in a range of environments to learn about their behaviour
- Studies, identifies and monitors physiological and morphological characteristics of microorganisms
- Develops and improves methods to prevent the spread of disease
- Studies, analyses and grows microbe cultures for use in the food and drink or agriculture industries
- Tests and analyses food, drink and related manufacturing processes to identify contamination
- Establishes process and safety standards for the processing of food to prevent spoilage and illness
Ways in
- University: Science degrees, Offered by 39 universities in Australia
- TAFE and VET: Certificate III in Aquaculture (SFI30119); Certificate III in Rural and Environmental Pest Management (AHC30324); Diploma of Aquaculture (SFI50119)
Pay · Outlook · AI and this job
- Typical full-time pay: $80,288 a year
- About 10,500 people work in this job group now, and about 12,600 are projected by 2035. (+19.8%)
- AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.
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Questions people ask
How do I become a Microbiologist?
Ways in include: Science degrees; Certificate III in Aquaculture; Certificate III in Rural and Environmental Pest Management.
How much does a Microbiologist earn in Australia?
Median full-time pay is $80,288 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Is a Microbiologist a growing career in Australia?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 20% by 2035, from about 10,500 to about 12,600 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Do you need a degree to become a Microbiologist?
Usually. 92% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Will AI change the work of a Microbiologist?
AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.
Sources
- Jobs and Skills Australia: Occupation data (ANZSCO), from ABS Labour Force and Census (February 2026), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
- Jobs and Skills Australia: Generative AI Capacity Study, interactive table data (September 2025), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
- Jobs and Skills Australia: Employment Projections (Victoria University) (May 2025 to May 2035), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
- Australian Taxation Office: Taxation Statistics, Individuals Table 15A (2023-24), CC BY 2.5 AU, retrieved 2026-10-04
Updated 2026-10-04