Microbiology with Professional Studies Queen's University Belfast

Overview

The Microbiology with Professional Studies (Hons) BSc programme from the Queen's University Belfast has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. This highlights the academic quality of the course and recognises the course in enabling graduates to meet the needs of the employer through development of technical and transferable skills.

Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses, and is of immense importance in relation to the environment, agriculture and food, biomedical sciences and biotechnology.

 Graduates in Microbiology are therefore highly sought after in these fields. Microbiology is very central to many aspects of the biological sciences, from pure research to diverse industrial, medical and environmental applications. Microorganisms play major roles in the diseases of man, animals and plants.

Microbiologists have been central to their diagnosis and in combating such diseases through the discovery of effective therapies. Microorganisms also play a central role in the biosphere, through global environmental processes and recycling of elements and waste products. In biotechnology and synthetic biology, microbes are also crucial in the manufacture of beverages, pharmaceuticals, biofuels and many other useful products.

Career opportunities:

Healthcare: Microbiologists are essential in the fight against infectious diseases working in hospitals and Health Protection Laboratories. Here they diagnose infections, monitor treatments, develop vaccines, provide advice or track disease outbreaks.

Basic research: In order to either solve the problems caused by microorganisms or exploit their capabilities fundamental research on their biochemistry and genetics is required. Many microbiologists work in universities and research institutes exploring the detailed workings of microbial cells.

Environment: One of the greatest challenges currently facing society is that of climate change and environmental protection. Microbiologists are key players in the development of waste treatment technologies, recycling processes, pollution warning systems and in the production of green energy.

Agriculture: Pest management is an essential component of modern agricultural practice. Microbiologists have key roles to play in the development of pest control systems and in the diagnosis and treatment of animal pathogens.

Business: Microbiologists work in many bioscience and food companies, carrying out research, developing new products or carrying out quality control of manufacturing processes to ensure the microbiological safety of goods such as medicines, cosmetics, food, drink etc.

Outside the lab: Many trained microbiologists never go on to work in the microbiology field. However, they can use their skills and knowledge to pursue careers in marketing, technical support, regulatory affairs, education, as patent attorneys, and in public relations, journalism and publishing. Past students have gained work placement with organisations locally, nationally and internationally such as:

Northern Ireland Water Ltd

• Environment Agency

• Forensic Science Service

• Moy Park

• Randox Laboratories

• Norbrook Laboratories Ltd

• The Almac Group

• Health Service