Bacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that thrive in diverse environments. These organisms can live in soil, the ocean and inside the human gut.
Bacteriology is the scientific study of microscopic organisms and bacteria and their effects on humans and animals. Bacteriologists monitor the ecology, metabolism and reproduction of these organisms.
Bacteriologists may work closely with other scientists to conduct research experiments and learn more about microorganism behaviour.
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in Bacteriology in the following subject areas:
There are many courses in Bacteriology that may take place over a few days, weeks or even 1 year to 4 years depending on the course and modules selected. There are also part-time courses and night courses available so you can be sure to fit in your studies no matter what your schedule is like.
Courses will cover theory work through lectures, assignments, tutorials and taught modules. Assessments will take place on a continuous basis with written examinations and practical assignments combined in order to achieve a qualification. You could also consider work experience or a work shadow in the industry. Having experience in a laboratory is useful when applying for jobs. Relevant work experience is a good way of demonstrating a genuine interest in the field and is regarded favourably by employers.
Work Experience will not only give you the opportunity to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the industry, it will also give you a chance to do some essential networking with other industry professionals and gain valuable contacts for the future.
After completing a Bacteriology course you will be able to get started in a career that uses specific knowledge of bacteria, microbes and microorganisms and how they affect our lives and how we can use them.
A bacteriologist is responsible for studying various kinds of bacteria, which are constantly changing and evolving. They typically do their research in a laboratory and may work closely with other scientists to conduct research experiments and learn more about microorganism behaviour.
Bacteriologists may specialize in a particular field, such as marine or veterinary bacteriology. These professionals use their academic knowledge and working experience to review bacteria growth and its effects on animals and the ecosystem. Bacteriologist plan and conduct laboratory experiments, as well as record and analyze data. Bacteriologists may work for pharmaceutical companies, developing drugs and vaccines, as well as for government agencies analyzing food and water for contamination.
As a bacteriologist you may work in hospitals, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, education or environmental agencies. Working hours will depend on whether you are employed by a facility with set business hours or if you are contracted to various businesses or companies. In a lab, you will usually work 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, although if you're working as a clinical scientist in a hospital or other similar healthcare setting you may be on call.
After completing a course in Bacteriology, you may choose to pursue further study in a specialist field to increase your knowledge base and skill set. Postgraduate study can also be used as a means to change career focus or to gain professional qualifications required to practise in certain career areas such as microbiology, microbial sciences, biomedical sciences, molecular biology, applied biology and biological sciences.
What is the difference between microbiology and bacteriology?
Microbiology is the branch of biology that deals with microorganisms, especially their effects on man and other living organisms while bacteriology is the scientific study of bacteria, especially in relation to disease and agriculture.
Why is Bacteriology important?
Bacteria and microbes are vitally important to all life on Earth. As versatile organisms, they play a major role in various biochemical processes such as biodegradation, biodeterioration, climate change, food spoilage, epidemiology and biotechnology.
By applying bacteria in a range of controlled settings, bacteriologists can harness their power for beneficial use in areas as diverse as healthcare, food production and agriculture.
In medicine alone, bacteriologists and microbiologists have contributed to some of history's most important scientific breakthroughs. Edward Jenner invented the world’s first smallpox vaccine. Robert Koch identified the causes of cholera, tuberculosis and anthrax. Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin. And, more recently, Barry Marshall identified the link between Helicobacter pylori infection and stomach ulcers. Microbiologists are pushing the envelope of science and helping to save lives in the process.
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