Navy
MEDICAL
Subspecialty
Officer Subspecialty
1815
Microbiology
An officer subspecialty earned alongside a primary designator, marking advanced education or experience in this field.
Description
Microbiology officers examine bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other microorganisms relevant to health and operations. They manage laboratory testing and surveillance used to diagnose infection, 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
Common Certifications
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Technologist in Microbiology (Microbiology, M)
- Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP)
- Medical Laboratory Scientist Certification
- Good Clinical Practice Certification
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Civilian Career Paths
- MEDICAL LABORATORY
- CLINICAL TECHNICIAN
- PUBLIC HEALTH
Training & Development
Getting Started
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
- OSHA Laboratory Safety Training
- Good Clinical Practice Certification
- Biosafety Level 2 Laboratory Practices Course
Career Growth
- American Society for Clinical Pathology Technologist in Microbiology (Microbiology, M)
- Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP)
- Public Health Microbiology Certificate
- Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Data sourced from official Navy publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.