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Microbiology and Immunology
Learn more about the Microbiology and Immunology program by visiting the Department of Microbiology and Immunology website.
Microbiology and Immunology majors develop a range of skills that support a variety of occupations. Below are some examples of those skills, as well as a list of sample occupations where those skills may be used.
These are not exhaustive lists, but they can help you see how your skills as a Microbiology and Immunology major are relevant in the workplace.
What skills do Microbiology and Immunology majors bring to the workplace?
- Researching the structure, function, ecology, biotechnology and genetics of microorganisms
- Using computer software to analyze data and to produce graphical or diagrammatic representations of results
- Conducting clinical or laboratory studies to test, evaluate and screen drugs and pharmaceuticals
- Experience with modern tools for immunology, virology, molecular biology and cell biology
In addition, as a Science student, you develop the ability to analyze problems, identify tools and pathways towards a solution, and communicate results. You may also gain experience working cooperatively within a team of people from a variety of professional, academic, and cultural backgrounds.
What are some career possibilities to consider?
Occupations that Microbiology and Immunology graduates might pursue:
Working in research can take place in a variety of different environments. Academic institutions, government agencies, or industry labs all participate in research in a range of ways. Common research areas include: bacterial physiology, infectious disease, immunology, virology, bioinformatics, host-pathogen interactions, microbial ecology/genomics, biotechnology, cancer and cell biology, or protein biochemistry. Learn more about becoming a Lab Tech in Microbiology at Career Cruising (Campus-Wide Login required).
- Employers apply the technical skills learned in a microbiology degree to perform field work for the following industries: biotechnology, product development, quality control, food safety, vaccine development, and waste water testing.
- Learn more about becoming a
biological technician at Career Cruising (Campus-Wide Login required).
- More employers in the sciences are relying on communications specialists with particular scientific backgrounds to provide marketing, communications, and public relations support. Other alumni go on to pursue careers in finance, administration or sales.
- Learn more about becoming a
technical writer at Career Cruising (Campus-Wide Login required).
Next Steps
1. Explore your career options
Career Cruising is an online listing of occupational profiles. To explore your career options:
- Log in using your Campus-Wide Login
- Click “Explore Careers” in the left-hand menu
- Type in an occupation to view its profile
- Select the occupation and learn more by clicking the following menu items.
| Menu item | What you’ll learn |
|---|---|
| Job description | Skills and qualifications the employer wants in applicants, and duties/tasks of the position. |
| Education | Educational requirements for the career, including additional training and certification. |
| Earnings | Expected earnings or salary ranges. Note: These are general estimates of salary ranges. Actual salaries vary with your experience and where you work. |
| Working conditions, photos |
The occupation’s work environment. |
| Sample career path | Chart the roles people have taken to help develop the skills and experience necessary for their ideal role, beginning with entry-level positions. |
| Related careers | Other occupations that might be of interest. |
| Other resources | Networks and professional associations that offer opportunities to network, access job postings, volunteer opportunities and more. |
2. Build your portfolio at UBC
Don’t wait until after graduation to get started on your career. As a UBC student, you can get involved in campus work and leadership opportunities that will help you develop transferable skills and experiences invaluable to your post-graduation work search.
Download these great resources:
- Getting involved at UBC (56KB PDF)
- Making time to get involved (55KB PDF)
High-commitment activities
These programs require a greater time investment, but will likely provide more opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and learning.
- Science Co-op: Gain paid work experience related to your studies.
- Science Undergraduate Society: Volunteer and have a voice in your student government.
- SCI Team: Help plan and promote Faculty of Science events.
- UBC Peer Programs: Help other students on campus through one of many programs.
- Go Global: Live and study internationally to gain cross-cultural experience.
- Student Leadership Conference: Join the student planning committee or present a workshop.
- Work Study and Work Learn: Find an on-campus job related to your studies.
Low-commitment activities
Volunteer to work at an event or simply participate. These work and leadership opportunities are great ways to connect with people, develop new skills, and determine your involvement interests.
- Student Leadership Conference: Attend and develop your leadership potential.
- Career Days: Volunteer at UBC’s largest on-campus career fair.
- Reading Week Project: Contribute to your community during the Reading Week break.
3. Access resources and get informed
Career Services workshops and events: Get feedback on your resumé, learn to network like a professional, practice interviews with employers, and more.
Beyond the BSc: Open forum groups where science grads discuss life after graduating with a BSc.
Meet with a Career Educator: Book a 30-minute session for guidance on career planning, job search strategies and career development.
Connect with employers: Check out employer information sessions and the annual Career Days.
