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Phd Microbiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) preferred. Experience * With a BS, 10+ yrs of combined experience in industrial microbiology, bioprocess development, or related laboratory environments. * With an MS, 7+ ...

PhD degree in Microbiology or related science with 1+ years industrial experience * Bachelor's degree in Microbiology with 3+ years industrial experience in the Pharmaceutical Industry is preferred

PhD degree in Microbiology or related science with 1+ years industrial experience * Bachelor's degree in Microbiology with 3+ years industrial experience in the Pharmaceutical Industry is preferred

With a PhD, 3+ yrs of combined experience in industrial microbiology, bioprocess development, or related laboratory environments.Demonstrated proficiency in molecular and analytical techniques ...

Principal Microbiologist

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

PhD in Microbiology or related field and 0 or more years of R&D experience; a Master's Degree in Microbiology or related field and 1 or more years of R&D experience; a Bachelor's Degree Microbiology ...

Principal Microbiologist

Naperville, IL · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

PhD in Microbiology or related field and 0 or more years of R&D experience; a Master's Degree in Microbiology or related field and 1 or more years of R&D experience; a Bachelor's Degree Microbiology ...

PhD with 10+ years' experience * Work experience in the scientific field, including microbiologist, research microbiologist, biologist, health scientist or related field (preferably in a public ...

MS with 10+ years' experience or PhD with 7-10+ years' experience * Work experience in the scientific field, including microbiologist, research microbiologist, biologist, health scientist or related ...

PhD with 10+ years' experience * Work experience in the scientific field, including microbiologist, research microbiologist, biologist, health scientist or related field (preferably in a public ...

MS with 10+ years' experience or PhD with 7-10+ years' experience * Work experience in the scientific field, including microbiologist, research microbiologist, biologist, health scientist or related ...

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Phd Microbiologist information

See salary details

$34.5K

$70.6K

$126K

How much do phd microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd microbiologist in the United States is $70,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD Microbiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Microbiologist, you need advanced knowledge of microbiological concepts, laboratory techniques, and a doctoral degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), molecular biology tools, and certifications such as biosafety training are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting high-level research, ensuring laboratory safety, and effectively sharing scientific findings.

What does a PhD microbiologist do?

A PhD microbiologist is a scientist who studies microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. They conduct advanced research to understand how these organisms function, interact with their environments, and impact human health, agriculture, and industry. Their work often involves designing experiments, analyzing data, publishing scientific papers, and collaborating with other researchers. Many PhD microbiologists work in academia, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, or biotechnology firms.

What is the difference between Phd Microbiologist vs Microbiologist?

AspectPhd MicrobiologistMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsPhD in Microbiology or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, biotech companiesLaboratories, healthcare, environmental agencies
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutions, biotech firmsHospitals, government agencies, private labs

While both roles involve studying microorganisms, a Phd Microbiologist typically conducts advanced research, develops new theories, and works in academic or biotech settings. A Microbiologist may perform routine testing, diagnostics, or environmental sampling. The PhD level indicates higher specialization and research focus, whereas microbiologists often have more applied roles.

What are some typical collaborative projects a PhD Microbiologist might be involved in within a research or industry setting?

PhD Microbiologists often work on interdisciplinary teams alongside chemists, bioinformaticians, and engineers to address complex biological questions. Common collaborative projects include developing new antibiotics, optimizing fermentation processes, or studying microbial interactions in environmental or clinical samples. These roles typically involve regular meetings, data sharing, and joint problem-solving to advance project goals. Collaboration not only enhances the research output but also provides valuable opportunities for professional growth and networking.
More about Phd Microbiologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Phd Microbiologist jobs? Cities with the most Phd Microbiologist job openings:
What states have the most Phd Microbiologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Phd Microbiologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Phd Microbiologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 14% Internship, 60% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 19% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,647 per year, or $34 per hour.

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Re-posted 26 days ago


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Job description

Senior Microbiologist, Process Micro Team - Decatur, IL - Relocation Assistance Available
Research & Development
This is an exempt level role.
Position Summary
The Senior Microbiologist, Process Micro Team position requires an experienced and lab-focused individual to advance ADM's microbial process research and innovation capabilities. This role will emphasize laboratory experimentation, analytical method development, and data-driven insights to support process optimization and contamination control strategies across ADM's production network.
The successful candidate will apply deep expertise in microbiology, molecular biology, and instrumentation to generate actionable scientific data, lead R&D initiatives, and collaborate cross-functionally with colleagues in Research, Engineering, and Operations. This position will report to Jeanette Skaluba, R&D Director, Process Micro.
Job Responsibilities
  • Design, execute, and interpret laboratory experiments focused on microbial process understanding, optimization, and contamination control.
  • Develop and apply advanced analytical and molecular biology techniques (e.g., qPCR, sequencing, flow cytometry, spectroscopic and chromatographic methods) to characterize microbial systems.
  • Lead R&D projects and initiatives originating from the Process Micro team, coordinating timelines, resources, and communication across functional groups.
  • Support plant operations through data-driven insights and lab-based troubleshooting of process microbiology issues.
  • Collaborate with plant and research teams to translate laboratory findings into scalable process improvements and technology implementations.
  • Develop and maintain laboratory instrumentation methods and data analysis workflows to ensure high-quality, reproducible results.
  • Contribute to contamination control strategies and sanitary process design through experimental validation and risk-based approaches.
  • Communicate findings, recommendations, and technical reports to stakeholders across R&D and Operations.
  • Ability to travel to ADM locations approximately 15-20% of the time.
Education
  • BS degree or higher in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Bioprocess Engineering, Food Safety, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Advanced degree (MS or PhD) preferred.
Experience
  • With a BS, 10+ yrs of combined experience in industrial microbiology, bioprocess development, or related laboratory environments.
  • With an MS, 7+ yrs of combined experience in industrial microbiology, bioprocess development, or related laboratory environments.
  • With a PhD, 3+ yrs of combined experience in industrial microbiology, bioprocess development, or related laboratory environments.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in molecular and analytical techniques relevant to microbial process characterization.
  • Experience with experimental design, data analytics, and interpretation of complex biological datasets.
  • Proven ability to manage projects and deliver results in cross-functional settings.
Skills and Proficiencies
  • Strong technical expertise in microbiological and molecular analytical methods.
  • Proficiency in data analysis tools and software for biological and process data (e.g., statistical packages, visualization tools).
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse, multidisciplinary teams and contribute to ADM's innovation strategy through research excellence.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in laboratory and project execution.
Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 
REF:109553BR

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