Microscopic forces are having more influence in the world. Microbiology has never been more important since the creation of vaccines to environmental challenges and food safety. For Indian students aspiring to build a global career, pursuing an MSc in Microbiology in the UK is a strategic investment. Universities like Oxford University, Imperial College London and University College London (ULC) are consistently ranked among the top universities to study Microbiology. The University of Nottingham has an MSc in Microbiology and Immunology, with specialist provision of up-to-date topics such as COVID-19, antimicrobial resistance and host-pathogen interactions, which combine extensive theory with exciting mission-led research (University of Nottingham).
This guide is specifically designed with Indian students in mind who are in the 2026-2027 academic intake and it contains all you need to map our your next steps- updated tuition fees, best performing universities, scholarships, visa advice and careers in the UK or back at home in India.
Why MSc Microbiology in the UK in 2026?
- Global Reputed Academic Standard: UK universities such as Oxford University, Imperial College London and the University College London (ULC) are continually placed between the top 20 in the world in terms of life sciences and medical research in QS world Ranking. You will be taught by the most influential scholars actively engaged in the advancement of microbiology that touches on virology, immunology and bacteriology.
- Research Intensive & Specialisations: There are also opportunities in medical microbiology, environmental microbiology, and industrial biotechnology, frequently with practical laboratory work and research projects using world-class facilities.
- Good Industry Connections: Universities have close ties with NHS, pharmaceutical firms, such as AstraZeneca, GSK, Pfizer, Janssen Pharmaceutical and biotech firms to guarantee appropriate course material as well as internship or research placements.
- Graduate Route Visa Advantage: UK Graduate Route will enable you to remain in the UK 2 years after graduation to obtain paid work experience abroad and develop your international career networks, enhancing your global job to career options without requiring an urgent visa sponsor.
Top Universities for MSc Microbiology in the UK (2026-2027)
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The following universities are highly recommended based on global and national rankings, research output, and industry connections. Rankings referenced are for 2026–2027.
| University | QS World Rank 2025(Biology) | CGU Rank 2026( Biological sciences) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | 4 | 2 |
| Imperial college London | 10 | 4 |
| University College London (ULC) | 16 | 8 |
| University of Edinburg | 23 | 6 |
| King’s College London | 31 | 12 |
These universities offer strong MSc Microbiology programs with a focus on research, practical skills, and industry readiness.
Detailed Overview for the Top 10 Universities for MSc in Microbiology in the UK in 2026
1. University of Oxford
University of Oxford is the oldest English speaking university with more than 9 century legacy and alumni list including Stephen Hawking and Indira Gandhi. The University always ranks among the top universities in QS World Ranking and THE Ranking.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public |
| Founded | 1096 (approx.) |
| Student Population | 26000 |
| International Acceptance Rate (PG) | 16.8–18% |
| IELTS Requirement | Not publicly specified (typically 7.0 overall for sciences) |
| Tuition Fees (estimate) | £30,000-35,000 (₹35.7-41.7 lakh) |
| Employment Rate | 95% |
| Top Recruiters | Likely NHS, pharma and research institutions |
| Program Highlights | Tutorials, lab-based research, big-data bioinformatics and strong pharma/NHS links |
Oxford uses the tutorial method-small, intensive sessions (often 1:1 or 1:2) with world-class professors. This allows for personalised learning environment and in-depth critical thinking. Even though the university is highly selective while accepting students, it offers 95% employment rate.
2. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is a Russell group university indicating it is research intensive and one of the reputed universities in the UK.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public (Russell Group) |
| Founded | 1907 |
| Student Population | 23,000 |
| International Acceptance Rate | 30% |
| IELTS Requirement | Not publicly specified |
| Tuition Fees (estimate) | £30K-35K (₹35.7-41.7 lakh) |
| Employment Rate | 96% |
| Top Recruiters | Biotech firms, pharma, research labs |
| Program Highlights | Cutting-edge biotech infrastructure and White City research hub |
Imperial College London is globally renowned for its science and technology focus—with strong lab facilities and an innovation ecosystem. It is the ideal for STEM courses. Even though the 30% acceptance rate may look low, compared to other top universities, the chances of getting into Imperial College of London is high. The promising 96% employment rate makes it a good option for Indian students looking to study MSc Microbiology in the UK.
3. University College London (UCL)
University college London is an ideal option for MSc in Microbiology in the UK with top recruiters including academia, pharma and biotech
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public (Russell Group) |
| Founded | 1826 |
| Student Population (PG) | 1,676 graduates (Wikipedia) |
| International Acceptance Rate | 30–38% |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.5–7.5 |
| Tuition Fees (estimate) | £25130 (₹29.9 lakh) |
| Employment Rate | Not publicly specified |
| Top Recruiters | Academia, pharma and biotech |
| Program Highlights | Strong Microbiology / Biosciences faculty, large research groups (Wikipedia) |
University College London boasts a leading Life Sciences faculty with deep history and rich infrastructure, making it a superb choice for research-led MSc. The location, London, is an advantage to get a good internship and to build industrial connections. However the cost of living will be high. Tuition fee is comparatively low with the annual tuition fee of ₹29.9 lakh(Wikipedia).
4. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh holds the legacy of around 4 centuries and Edinburgh’s School of Biological Sciences is ranked 5th in the UK and top in Scotland for research quality and breadth, with around 94% of its work rated ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public (Ancient) |
| Founded | 1582 |
| Student Population | 45,000 |
| International Acceptance Rate | 35–40% |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.5–7.0 |
| Tuition Fees (estimate) | £23,800–37,200 per year ( ₹28.3–44.3 lakh) |
| Employment Rate | 93% |
| Top Recruiters | Environmental agencies, research institutes and NHS |
| Program Highlights | REF-rated biology departments and interdisciplinary programs (Wikipedia) |
Edinburgh has strong life science research, though international rankings have experienced recent drops. It is known for its biology department making it a smart choice of MSc in Microbiology. The acceptance rate is average with 93% of the employment rate.
5. King’s College London
King’s College of London is located in central London and is a part of the Russell Group.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Public (Russell Group) |
| Founded | 1829 |
| Student Population | 30,000(Uniplus Global) |
| International Acceptance Rate | 20–25% |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.5–7.5 |
| Tuition Fees (estimate) | £22k to £35K+ per year (₹26.2-41.6 lakh) |
| Employment Rate | 90% |
| Top Recruiters | Health, biotech, research |
| Program Highlights | Strong biomedical science offerings in central London (Uniplus Global) |
King’s College London is really selective and known for its strong biomedical science offerings in central London. The tuition fee is average in London but is really high, so it is better to look for scholarship options when thinking about studying in London. King’s combines strong rankings with high international diversity and London-based professional connectivity (Uniplus Global).
Top MSc Microbiology Specialisations in UK for Indian Students in 2026-27
The UK provides various pathways of MSc Microbiology that is customised according to various career objectives. Regardless of whether you want to work in a hospital, protect the environment, or invent something in biotechnology, you might find a specialisation which suits your goals and industry needs. The following are some of the best specialisations that have good ROI;
| Specialisation | Avg. Cost (£) | Avg. Salary (£) | Top Employers | Top UK Universities Offering It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Microbiology | 22,000 | 30,000–35,000 | NHS, GSK, AstraZeneca | University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh, University of Surrey |
| Environmental Microbiology | 21,000 | 28,000–33,000 | Environmental Agencies | University of Aberdeen, University of Exeter, University of Dundee |
| Industrial Biotechnology | 23,000 | 32,000–38,000 | Biotech companies, Pharma | University of Manchester, University of Nottingham, University of Strathclyde |
Medical microbiology is ideal for healthcare and diagnostics, environmental microbiology suits public health and sustainability, and industrial biotechnology prepares for the pharma and biotech industries. These specialisations promise a good ROI, making it a smart investment.
What are the Eligibility Criteria to Study MSc Microbiology in the UK (2026)
Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Science, or related fields.
- Minimum 60–70% marks (check university-specific requirements for Indian students).
English Language Requirements:
| Test | Overall Score | Minimum per Component |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall | 6.0 in each band |
| TOEFL iBT | 90 overall | Reading: 20–22Listening: 20–22Speaking: 21–23Writing: 21–23 |
| PTE Academic | 58–65 | No less than 58 in any skill |
The English Language requirements can change according to the university and the specialisation. Always cross check before applying for any exams. IELTS will be a smart option as most of the reputed universities consider IELTS. In some cases there will be a waiver if you match the alternative requirements like MOI (Mode of Instruction).
Documents Required:
- Academic documents (Transcripts & Certificates).
- Statement of Purpose(SOP).
- Two Letters of Recommendation.
- Current updated CVS/Resume.
- Valid copy of Passport
- Proof of English Proficiency
Tip: Showcase Relevant Experience. Include research experience, lab internships, or any publications in microbiology-related fields. These are major value-adds.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Indian Students 2026
- 1. Start with Research & Shortlisting: This is the most crucial stage. Explore UK universities, course modules, fees, rankings, and where each specialisation can take you career-wise. Keep a spreadsheet to compare costs, entry requirements, and ROI. Do your research thoroughly as MSc Microbiology in the UK costs a fortune.
- 2. Take Your English Language Test: In case English is not your mother language you will have to have IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores. And do it earlier, not at the last minute before the exam so that you can take it again in case things go wrong. The majority of the universities are taking the previous two years.
- 3. Prepare Your SOP & LORs: Your Statement of Purpose (SOP), it is your story, why microbiology, why the UK, and what you intend to do after. Be personal, even though professional. When it comes to Letters of Recommendation (LORs), request them to professors or employers who really know your work; such canned letters will not work.
- 4. Submit Your Applications: Most MSc degrees begin in September. Go on the universities own portal (postgrad courses are not on UCAS). You will require transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV and English test scores. Re-check format of documents-most of the portals will ONLY permit a document with a given size.
- 5. Get an Offer & Pay the Deposit: If all goes well, you’ll receive either a conditional or unconditional offer. Accept it and pay the deposit to secure your place. Conditional offers mean you still need to submit some pending documents.
- 6. Apply for Your Student Visa: After the university confirms your admissions with your CAS:(Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), you can then go on and apply for your UK Student Visa. You will require satisfactory evidence of funds, your offer letter and a valid passport.
MSc Microbiology UK Application Timeline for Indian Students
| Stage | Timeline (Months) |
|---|---|
| Research & Shortlist | Aug – September 2025 |
| English Language Test | December – March |
| Prepare SOP & LORs | September – December |
| Submit Applications | September – January |
| Offer & Deposit | April – June |
| Student Visa | May – June |
Tip: Education consultants can be useful, but you can absolutely manage the process yourself if you follow the step-by-step guidelines from the universities’ international offices.
The Cost of Studying MSc Microbiology in UK for Indian Students (2026-2027)
Planning your finances is a critical part of your study abroad journey. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect for the 2026-2027 academic year.
| Pre-Type | Expenses (£) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Admission | £500–£1,000 | Includes English language test fees (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), application fees for universities, document translation/certification, and courier charges. |
| Tuition Fees | £20,000–£30,000/year | Varies depending on university ranking, course specialisation, and location. High-ranking universities or London-based universities tend to be at the upper end. |
| Cost of Living | £1,000–£1,300/month | Covers accommodation, food, travel, personal expenses, and study materials. London is the most expensive city; smaller cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow are comparatively cheaper. |
| Total Cost of Studying (1 Year) | £32,000–£46,600 | Approximate total including tuition, living expenses for 9–12 months, and pre-admission expenses. Exact costs vary based on lifestyle and university choice. |
This table provides a clear breakdown of the total cost for Indian students planning to pursue MSc Microbiology in the UK in 2026–2027. Pre-admission expenses are essential to consider before applying. For international students, MSc Microbiology tuition fees for the 2026-2027 session are expected to range from £20,000 to £30,000 per year. This can vary significantly based on the university's ranking and location. You can learn more about the overall cost of studying in the UK including the accommodation, fees and transportation. Tuition fees differ based on the university’s prestige and city, while living costs depend on location and personal lifestyle. The estimated cost of living in the UK for a student is around £1,000 to £1,300 per month, depending on the city and your lifestyle. London is typically more expensive than other cities like Manchester, Birmingham, or Glasgow.
Scholarships available for Indian students to study MSc Microbiology in the UK (2026)
In the UK, the cost of studying MSc Microbiology is high with an average cost of £32,000–£46,600 per year. Scholarships and financial aid can help to fulfil your dream without burning a hole in your pocket. So check the available fully funded and partially funded scholarships and apply for it. Scholarships will help you to save a huge amount of money.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening Scholarships | Indian citizen, bachelor’s degree, leadership potential, 2+ years work experience | Fully funded (tuition + living expenses + airfare) | Apply online at chevening.org before the deadline (usually November each year) |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Indian citizens from Commonwealth countries, minimum bachelor’s degree, academic excellence | Full tuition, living allowance, airfare | Apply via cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk before the annual deadline |
| University of Manchester International Merit Scholarships | High academic achievement, applying for postgraduate MSc | £5,000–£10,000 towards tuition | Apply through the university’s scholarship portal with your course application |
| University of Hertfordshire International Excellence Scholarship | Outstanding academic record, international students | £2,000–£5,000 towards tuition | Apply via the university’s online scholarship form along with course application |
| Northumbria University International Scholarship | International students with strong academic background | £3,000–£5,000 | Apply during online course application; automatically considered based on eligibility |
| University of Aberdeen International Postgraduate Scholarship | International students with first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree | £5,000–£8,000 | Apply via university’s scholarship portal along with your MSc application |
| Middlesex University International Merit Scholarship | High academic merit for international students | £2,500–£5,000 | Apply through the university’s online application portal |
| University of Wolverhampton International Scholarship | International students with strong academic record | £1,500–£3,000 | Apply via university scholarship application form after receiving an offer |
Career Opportunities After MSc Microbiology in UK for Indian Students
An MSc in Microbiology from the UK opens doors to a wide range of rewarding careers, both in the UK and globally. Industry reports show a growing demand for skilled microbiologists in several key sectors.
| Opportunity | Avg. Cost of Studying (£) | Avg. Salary (£) | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microbiologist | 22,000–24,000 | 25,000–35,000 (₹27–38 lakh/year) | NHS, Biotech, Pharma |
| Research Scientist | 22,000–26,000 | 30,000–45,000 (₹33–49 lakh/year) | Universities, Biotech Startups |
| Quality Control Analyst | 20,000–24,000 | 28,000–35,000 (₹31–38 lakh/year) | Pharma & Food Companies |
| Clinical Laboratory Scientist | 22,000–26,000 | 30,000–40,000 (₹33–44 lakh/year) | Hospitals, NHS, Diagnostics |
Microbiology careers are in demand across healthcare, pharma, biotech, and environmental sectors. Salaries increase with experience and specialisation. To international students, with countries such as India, as an example, the ROI (Return on Investment) then turns out to be compelling when you assess the post-study working available in the UK under graduate route visa (allows up to 2 years to work after graduation). Graduates have high starting pay and well-defined career paths so that many can be expected to recoup most of their tuition fees shortly after graduation. With these specialisation, you will get more than 100% ROI within a year.
Graduate Route Visa after MSc Microbiology –Your First Step to Building a Career in the UK in 2026
- The UK Graduate Route Visa lets international students stay in the UK for 2 years after completing their degree (3 years for PhD graduates). During this period, you can work in any job, at any skill level-whether to gain UK work experience, network with industry professionals, or transition into your dream role.
- How it connects to a Work Permit:
If you secure a job with an employer approved by the UK Home Office, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa even before your Graduate Route Visa ends. This allows you to stay longer (up to 5 years) and work in a sponsored role. - Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR):
Time spent on the Graduate Route Visa doesn’t directly count towards the 5-year residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR also known as UK PR). However, time on a Skilled Worker Visa does count. Many students use their Graduate Route period to gain UK experience and secure sponsorship, setting themselves on the PR track.
Opportunities in India after MSc Microbiology in the UK
A master's degree from the UK is highly respected by employers in India. The advanced knowledge, practical skills, and global perspective you gain will make you a highly competitive candidate in India's booming pharmaceutical, biotech, and healthcare sectors.
Indian students with a UK MSc can pursue careers in:
- Pharmaceutical R&D
- Biotech startups
- Healthcare and clinical diagnostics
- Academic research and teaching
- Environmental and food safety sectors
International exposure, advanced lab skills, and global credentials provide a competitive edge in India’s life sciences sector.
MSc in Microbiology in UK vs MSc in Microbiology in USA for Indian Students 2026
| Factor | UK | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 year | 2 years |
| Tuition Fees (International) | £20,000–£35,000 (₹21L–₹36.7L) / year | $25,000–$50,000 (₹20.8L–₹41.6L) / year |
| Living Expenses | £10,000–£15,000 (₹10.5L–₹15.7L) / year | $12,000–$20,000 (₹10L–₹16.6L) / year |
| Language Requirement | IELTS 6.5–7.0 | TOEFL iBT 90–100 (IELTS 6.5–7.0 accepted) |
| Stay & Work After Graduation | 2 years – Graduate Route (work in any job, later switch to Skilled Worker visa) | Up to 3 years – STEM OPT (work in your field before applying for H-1B) |
| Total Estimated Cost | £30,000–£50,000 (₹31.5L–₹52.5L) | $74,000–$140,000 (₹61.5L–₹1.16Cr) |
| Key Strengths | Shorter course duration, world-class research facilities, faster entry to workforce | Longer program with more research exposure, access to top biotech hubs and research funding |
United Kingdom
The UK is ideal when you need a fast, comprehensive degree (only 1 year) and can spare more money. World leading labs in microbiology and connections with pharma, healthcare and environmental research can be found in many UK universities like University of Edinburgh and Oxford University. You are provided with 2 years to work on any basis following your graduation so you have time to identify qualified posts.
United States
The USA only provides two year programs that contain much value and reach higher in the field of research. It also provides a way to connect with some of the largest biotech corporations in the world. It is more expensive, but with the 3-year STEM OPT, you can continue working in your field without having to apply for an H-1B visa, and that is a huge plus in terms of career building.
Conclusion
To summarise, the ultimate best choice of MSc Microbiology specialisation is subject to your career goals and your budget. The UK has a wide range of advantages in its top universities to offer to Indian students who wish to major in microbiology. University of Oxford is notable in individualised tutorial-based education and unmatched research depth which suits someone seeking an academic or higher researching career. If you are an innovation-seeking student, Imperial College London is ideal because it has state-of-the-art biotech facilities and is closely connected to the life sciences sector in London. University College London (UCL), a powerful entity in bioscience research as well as beneficiary of a central London location, is very good as a university that offers much broader academic and professional experience to students. The University of Edinburgh is an excellent choice with regards to research quality of interdisciplinary life sciences and environmental microbiology in Scotland. The King's College of London is the best institution in biomedical science and offers the chance to access health care and clinical microbiology opportunities in central London. Collectively these universities will make sure that wherever your career interest lies in the field of healthcare, environmental sustainability, or biotechnology innovation, you will find a program of world-class distinction, made to fit your career goals.
In order to get further information on MSc in Microbiology in the UK, you can talk to our expert counsellors. Their personalised guidance will help you choose the right one. Book a free counselling with leapscholar today and make your UK study dream a reality!
FAQs
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Which university is best for MSc microbiology in the UK?
Top universities for MSc Microbiology in the UK include University of Manchester, University of Hertfordshire, Northumbria University, University of Aberdeen, Middlesex University, and University of Wolverhampton. Manchester is highly recommended for research exposure and industry connections, while other universities offer strong practical training and placement opportunities.
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What are the fees for MSc microbiology in the UK?
Tuition fees for international students range from £18,000–£26,000 per year depending on the university. Living expenses in the UK are typically £1,000–£1,300 per month. Scholarships like Chevening or university-specific merit-based awards can help reduce costs.
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Is microbiology a good career in the UK?
Yes, microbiology is in demand in healthcare, pharma, biotech, environmental, and research sectors. Careers include microbiologist, research scientist, quality control analyst, and clinical lab scientist, with strong growth prospects and opportunities for specialisation.
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Which country is best to study MSc microbiology?
The UK is among the top destinations due to world-class research, global university rankings, strong industry links, and the Graduate Route Visa, which allows you to stay and work for 2 years post-graduation. Other good options include Germany, Canada, and the USA, but the UK offers a shorter program duration and excellent global recognition.
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Is the UK M.Sc degree valid in India?
Yes, a UK MSc degree is fully recognised in India by employers, universities, and research institutes. Graduates often pursue careers in pharma R&D, biotech startups, healthcare, academic research, and environmental sectors in India.
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What is the scope of microbiology in the UK?
Microbiology graduates can work in healthcare, pharmaceutical and biotech industries, public health agencies, environmental monitoring, and academic research. The field offers both research-intensive and industry-oriented roles, with increasing demand for specialists in medical microbiology, industrial biotechnology, and environmental microbiology.
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What are the requirements for MSc microbiology with placement in the UK?
Requirements typically include:
BSc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Science, or related fields with at least 60–70% marks.IELTS 6.5 overall (min 6.0) or equivalent TOEFL/PTE scores.
Application documents: transcripts, SOP, 2 LORs, CV, and passport copy.
Some universities offer industry/research placements as part of the course. -
What is the salary after an MSc in microbiology?
The average salary for graduates ranges from £25,000–45,000 per year, depending on role and experience (~₹27–49 lakh per year). Career growth is strong, especially for specialised roles in medical, industrial, or environmental microbiology.
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How to get MSc admission in the UK?
Research and shortlist universities (12–18 months before intake).
Take English language tests (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE).
Prepare SOP & LORs (6–9 months prior).
Submit applications online with transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV, and English test scores.
Receive offer and pay tuition deposit.
Apply for a UK Student Visa using CAS provided by the university.
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What is the salary of a microbiologist in the UK?
A microbiologist earns an average of £25,000–35,000 per year, which is roughly ₹2.27–3.18 lakh per month. Experienced specialists and research scientists can earn up to £45,000+ per year.
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Which field is best for microbiology?
Medical/Clinical Microbiology (healthcare, diagnostics)
Industrial Biotechnology (pharma and biotech industries)
Environmental Microbiology (sustainability, public health, food safety)
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Is a microbiologist a doctor?
No, a microbiologist is a scientist specialising in microbes, not a medical doctor. They work in laboratories, research, healthcare diagnostics, and industry settings rather than practicing medicine.
12. Is a microbiologist a doctor?
No, a microbiologist is a scientist specialising in microbes, not a medical doctor. They work in laboratories, research, healthcare diagnostics, and industry settings rather than practicing medicine.
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