Many microbiologists apply their knowledge and skills in work outside of the laboratory. There are opportunities in the civil service, local government, industry and commerce. One example is sales and marketing of pharmaceutical products or laboratory equipment and consumables. A period of lab experience helps a sales consultant understand the concerns of microbiology focused customers.

Another area of work is in information science and librarianship. Some microbiologists become technical or science writers or work for scientific publishers, editing journal articles or books.

Others go into the law and accountancy where scientists are popular with recruiters. The biotechnology business boom has resulted in many more jobs for technology transfer specialists, business development managers and patent lawyers who need to have a sound grasp of the scientific basis of the subject.

Some microbiology graduates undertake teacher training and go on to work in schools or further education colleges. A few lectureships in universities are available, but candidates must usually have obtained a postgraduate qualification such as a PhD and worked for several years as a researcher.