Navy Officer Subspecialty · Medical
1815 Microbiology
An officer subspecialty earned alongside a primary designator, marking advanced education or experience in this field.
Overview
Microbiology officers examine bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other microorganisms relevant to health and operations. They manage laboratory testing and surveillance used to diagnose infections, control outbreaks, and protect personnel.
Core Skills
- microbial identification
- clinical microbiology
- culture and sensitivity testing
- molecular diagnostics
- laboratory quality management
- biosafety protocols
- infectious disease surveillance
- antimicrobial resistance analysis
- scientific reporting
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
- SAP software
Civilian Career Paths
- Medical Laboratory
- Clinical Technician
- Public Health
Training & Development
Getting Started
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
Career Growth
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Technologist in Microbiology (Microbiology, M)
- Certified Biological Safety Professional (CBSP)
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Also Common
- Medical Laboratory Scientist Certification
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
What the Work Involves
- Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
- Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
- Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.
- Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
- Supervise biological technologists and technicians and other scientists.
Related Occupations
- Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
- Biochemists and Biophysicists
- Biological Technicians
- Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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