It’s understandable to feel confused when considering microbiology and biotechnology as possible career paths. This is because both options are related to science and other similar fields, and require use of living organisms and a great deal of laboratory work. They also contain many opportunities for research and applications in the field of medicine. The main difference is in which area each option specializes in, and what field it covers the most.
As mentioned, microbiology specializes in the study of different microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoa. Biotechnology specializes in different tools and techniques in the field of technology that help in the development of innovative products. These can be useful in different areas such as clinical research and drugs, as well as the agro-industry and the environment.
Students must consider many factors such as their interests, what area is ripe for new discoveries, existing needs in the job market, and where they can find career opportunities.
What does microbiology focus on?
Students studying microbiology learn different principles and theories related to microorganisms and their effects on human beings and other living things including plants, animals, food and the environment.
Usually, these organisms are invisible to the naked eye. Students learn how these organisms interact, grow and multiply. Students learn about different microorganisms and how they can bring about various diseases.
What does biotechnology focus on?
Biotechnology specializes in areas related to intersection of biology and technology. This field of study focuses on application of different organisms and technology to help in research, discoveries and developments in the field of medicine and other areas such as agriculture and environment.
Research is another main area of focus for biotechnology. Some of the tools and techniques in biotechnology used in different aspects of life are genes, cells, DNA, enzymes and different microorganisms.
Areas of study include:
Genetic engineering and molecular biology
Cell culture and tissue engineering
Bioinformatics and computational biology
Bioprocess technologies
Pharmaceutical and Industrial Biotechnology
Students interested in biotechnology can look into the fields of: research and development, clinical trials, food, pharmaceutical, agriculture, biotechnology and related industries.
What is better: biotechnology or microbiology?
There is no answer as both fields are different and have their own advantages.
Microbiology is better if you want a career in microbe identification and research, laboratory testing, infectious diseases, and clinical microbiology.
A career in biotechnology is better if you want to work in genetic engineering and related fields.
What is more career oriented?
Microbiology, biotechnology and pharmaceutics are equally career oriented.
A microbiology graduate can find employment as a: Microbiologist, quality control analyst, laboratory technician or research assistant (in the field of food or pharmaceutical microbiology).
A biotechnology graduate can find employment as a: Biotechnologist, research associate, quality control, clinical research associate, bioprocess and biotechnology professional.
Students should find universities that provide a combination of academics and practical learning. Swarrnim Startup and Innovation University is one such example.
According to your academic qualification career opportunities also vary. A bachelor's degree gives an opportunity to enter the field of biotechnology or microbiology but to enter into advanced roles you may need a postgraduate degree.
What about salary and career growth?
To compare salaries and growth potential between microbiology and biotechnology would not be wise. While both the fields provide opportunities based on your qualification and skills, it's the specialization that makes the difference.
Microbiology has opportunities in labs, health care, food safety and the pharmaceutical industry.
Higher education gives you the opportunity to enter into more advanced positions, for e.g. a master’s degree, a certified specialization or a research degree.
Between the two, which one is better?
One of the main things you need to consider is what kind of problems do you want to solve? For example, you want to do research in the field of biology, genetics and pharmaceuticals then you should take biotechnology.
There are varying college programs for biotechnology and microbiology. While researching, consider the college’s laboratory facilities and faculty, internships, exposure to the industry, research, and placement opportunities before making your final decision.
Which one is better for higher education and specialized study?
Both fields provide opportunities to specialize. Students of microbiology have the opportunity to specialize in related areas such as medical microbiology, biotechnology, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals and immunology, after their postgraduate study.
Biotechnology students have numerous options including specializations in molecular biotechnology, bioinformatics, pharmaceutical biotechnology and genetic engineering.
Alumni of the research stream can opt for doctoral studies and embark on academic careers in Universities, research institutes, hospitals and pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
Which career choice is the best?
For those interested in scientific research and having a career in an environment full of biological sciences and engineering, both microbiology and biotechnology are equally good choices.
Microbiology focuses on the science of microorganisms and biotechnology encompasses the application of biological sciences for various fields including medicine and agriculture and other areas.
The best option is to choose based on one's preferences, talents and future career goals. Students are advised to evaluate all aspects of various courses including curriculum, laboratory and field training, industry placements, jobs and further studies, before taking an admission.
For people planning for further studies, interested in innovation and entrepreneurship along with education, Swarrnim Startup and Innovation University can also be considered.
