What Kind of Jobs Use Microscopes?

A microscope is an instrument that is used to magnify small objects so they can be observed by the human eye. Many of the occupations that use microscopes are in scientific research, but what is studied and why greatly vary. These occupations include entomology, pathology, cytology, histology and embryology.

Cytologist

A cytologist is someone who studies cells looking for abnormalities. These abnormalities may be cancerous growth, malignant tumors or infections. In order to see the cells at sizes large enough to notice these tiny changes, a cytologist must use powerful microscopes. All cytologists must complete a degree in cytology or cytotechnology before they are able to work.

Histology

Histologists examine the tissues of plants and animals to determine how the cell functions. They research how the cell generates energy, uses and disposes of nutrients and how it works with other tissues and cells. They also study how the tissues join together to form organs. In order to view the tissues as a magnification large enough to study, they must use microscopes. In order to be a histologist, some colleges offer histology classes, but a combination of math, biology and chemistry will help prepare you.

Embryologist

An embryologist is someone who studies the growth of embryos. Some specialize in human embryos, others animals or others plants. Embryos study how the embryo is created, how it develops and problems that might occur during this stage of life. Some embryologists also work with artificial insemination, which is fertilizing the egg outside the uterus and then implanting the embryo later on. Because of the size of the embryos, microscopes are used constantly.

Pathologist

A pathologist studies samples for the presence of diseases and infections. They will study blood samples, skin samples and tumors to determine what the infection consists of by looking at samples under a microscope. Pathologists can also do preventative studies, such as cholesterol tests, to determine when there is a significant risk of problems. Finally, they may also work as a coroner to determine causes of death.

Entomology

Entomologists study insects and conduct experiments with them. Some study the genetic changes in insects, while others study insects and how to best rid them and apply this research to agriculture. Not only do they determine how certain pests can be eliminated from an ecosystem but also what effect the loss of that species would have on the ecosystem.

References

• Cytologists
• Histology
• Embryologist

Resources

• Pathologist
• Entomology