Average Salary Range

Professionals with an M.S. in microbiology commonly earn approximately $65,000 to $110,000+ depending on specialization, experience, geographic region and industry sector.

➜ Learn more about both concentrations in the fully online M.S. program in Microbiology and Cell Science at UF

Ph.D. Careers

Built for discovery, innovation and leading the future of science.

Doctoral graduates in microbiology lead advanced research programs in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, government agencies and emerging technology sectors. Ph.D.-level scientists design studies, publish research, direct laboratories and develop solutions to global challenges.

Typical Career Paths

Average Salary Range

Ph.D. level microbiologists frequently earn approximately $90,000 to $180,000+ depending on sector, leadership responsibilities, grant funding, publications and specialization.

➜ Explore on-campus and distance Ph.D. programs in Microbiology and Cell Science at UF

CAREERS BY INTEREST

Microbiology in the Wild

Exploration. Discovery. Extreme environments.

Some laboratories have four walls. Others span oceans, ice sheets and volcanic landscapes. From caves and glaciers to launch facilities and research vessels, microbiologists follow microbes wherever they thrive.

Alternate Microbiology Careers

Communication. Technology. Leadership.

A microbiology degree opens doors far beyond traditional research and laboratory careers. Graduates also work in business, communications, policy, technology and entrepreneurship, applying scientific thinking to challenges across industries.

Career Outlook

Human curiosity. Human expertise. Human impact.

As technology continues to transform science, the demand for professionals who can design experiments, interpret complex biological systems and apply scientific judgment remains strong. Microbiology combines technical expertise with critical thinking, making it a field where human insight continues to play a central role.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of microbiologists is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 1,700 job openings projected each year. The median annual wage for microbiologists reached $87,330 in 2024, with opportunities spanning healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, government and research.

Scientists with expertise in microbiology, genomics, biotechnology and related life sciences are helping drive innovation in areas ranging from public health and drug development to environmental sustainability and emerging technologies. Demand is expected to continue as organizations seek professionals who can translate scientific data into real-world solutions.

Discovery Starts at UF

Whether your goal is improving public health, advancing biotechnology, protecting ecosystems or exploring some of Earth's most extreme environments, microbiology provides the scientific foundation to pursue meaningful and impactful work.

At UF's Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, students build the knowledge, research experience and real-world perspective needed to pursue careers across healthcare, biotechnology, government, environmental science and emerging industries.

Our graduates consistently report that the value of their education extends well beyond the classroom. In a recent alumni survey, 93% reported a positive return on investment, 95% were satisfied with the knowledge and skills they gained and 64% said the program prepared them to achieve their academic and professional goals.

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RESOURCES & SUPPORT

FAQ

Is microbiology only a lab career?
No. Many roles involve fieldwork, environmental sampling and applied science.

Is microbiology a good career path?
Yes. It aligns with high-demand industries like biotech and public health.

Do you need a master’s degree?
Not always, but it expands opportunities and earning potential.

Find answers to more frequently asked questions HERE.

Sources

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024-2034 Employment Projections