What Is a Public Health Microbiologist Trainee and How to Become One
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What Does a Public Health Microbiologist Trainee Do?
A public health microbiologist trainee job focuses on learning to work in a laboratory to test for, identify, and contain diseases and microscopic organisms that cause health problems. You undergo training under the supervision of experienced public health microbiologists. You learn safe specimen handling and practice the methods that microbiologists use to test samples for evidence of disease. Your duties can also include assessing environmental samples, such as tap water or soil, for evidence of contamination. In addition to sample assessment, you document findings and receive training in the use of lab equipment, such as centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes.
How to Get a Job as a Public Health Microbiologist Trainee
The qualifications that you need to become a public health microbiologist trainee include a relevant college degree and laboratory skills. Most employers expect a bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, health sciences, or a closely related field. Some employers prefer a master’s degree related to biology or public health. Trainee programs last for at least six months. After successfully working as a trainee, you are qualified to handle your lab responsibilities without direct oversight. Some states, including California, require trainees to pass licensing exams before they undertake unsupervised work. Check your state requirements so you can plan the next steps in your career.
