Microbiology

Building upon our pedigree as the oldest Microbiology Department in the UK, we employ a rnage of internationally-recognised research scientists in the fields of bacteriology, virology and parasitology.  As a graduate, you will benefit from this, obtaining a high-quality degree that provides many, many diverse oppurtunites for future careers in the health services, research and industry.

This programme will take you on a journey of microbiology discovery with a particular focus on medical aspects.  You will learn fundamental properties, genetics and physiology of thses diverse microbes, underpinned by knowledge of the host cell biology and immune system and a strong practical emphasis.

Career prospects
Reading Microbiology graduates are qualified to enter a variety of careers in the biological sciences, and past employers have included the Medical Research Council, South East Water, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Imperial College, the Environmental Agency and local authorities. As numerate scientists they can use their transferable skills and problem-solving abilities to enter a wide variety of commerical and business occupations, not directly related to microbiology. 87% of our graduates are in paid work or higher level study six months after they graduate and Honours graduates will be eligible for membership to the Institute of Biology and Chartered Biologist statues. A sample of the fields entered by recent Reading graduates of microbiological sciences are: Clinical Research Associate, Drug Discovery, Researcher, Forensic Scientist and Veterinary Scientist.

Professional experience and opportunities for placements
Students have the opportunity to undertake paid vacation studentships sponsored by organisations including The Welcome Trust, Society for General Microbiology, The Nuffield Foundation, Society for Applied Microbiology, The Genetics Society, The Biochemical Society.

The University of Reading also provides Undergraduate Research Oppurtunities Programme, run by the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, for Applied Undergraduate Research Skills (CETL-AURS.)

You may apply for a year's placement in industry or research institute between your second and third year of study. The school has close links with leading commercial and research centres. Students who do a year of industrial experience often find it invaluable when choosing a career after graduation.

Your choice of programme
After the first year, you will have gained an understanding of the basic concepts of modern microbiology and also of the genetics and molecular biology that will support you further studies. In the second year, you will deepen your understanding of microbiological concepts and host biology.  In the final year, you will have studied microbial pathogenesis and other chosen subjects in depth and will be equipped to tackle detailed problems and analyses.

Throughout the programme you will receive training in the use of computers to access information resources, the role of quantification in biological sciences and the use of statistical programmes for data analyses.

This degree is part of our suite of degrees in the Biological Sciences. See the main Biological Sciences pages for details.