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How to Become a Veterinary Microbiologist

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Imagine discovering the bacteria attacking Thoroughbred racehorses or aiding a veterinarian in diagnosing anthrax in cows. Such is the life of the veterinary microbiologist. These specialists identify organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye in order to help domesticated and wild animals. Read on to learn more about veterinary microbiology.

From Quick Guide: Veterinary Jobs
Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Love science because you're going to spend a lot of time behind a microscope. Veterinary microbiologists study living organisms known as microbes or bacteria. Veterinary microbiologists must evaluate how these living organisms affect animals.

  2. Step 2

    Study a good general education curriculum in high school with an emphasis on biology and chemistry. Take science classes that include lab time.

  3. Step 3

    Apply to a college with a good microbiology program. In addition to the usual requirements, the curriculum is heavily weighed in the sciences. You'll study biological or life science, cell biology, immunology and biochemistry. Specific microbiology classes range from general to environmental to genetic.

  4. Step 4

    Work in laboratories or veterinary hospitals. You might be able to find a position through your school as part of a summer internship. Practical experience will aid you in your career path.

  5. Step 5

    Looks at your goals. Microbiologists with undergraduate degrees can sometimes get positions as research assistants. For other jobs, you need to look at advancing your education either in microbiology or veterinary medicine.

  6. Step 6

    Choose an accredited school if you decided to study veterinary medicine. Work on your writing skills if you pursue advanced education, as research papers are a big part of your curriculum.

Tips & Warnings
  • Veterinary microbiologists work closely with other professionals in veterinary medicine.
  • DNA research is another career path for veterinary microbiologists.
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