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The differences between bioinformatics scientists and microbiologists can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a bioinformatics scientist, becoming a microbiologist takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a bioinformatics scientist has an average salary of $91,530, which is higher than the $54,620 average annual salary of a microbiologist.
The top three skills for a bioinformatics scientist include python, next-generation sequencing and data analysis. The most important skills for a microbiologist are lab equipment, microbiology lab, and environmental monitoring.
| Bioinformatics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Yearly salary | $91,530 | $54,620 |
| Hourly rate | $44.00 | $26.26 |
| Growth rate | 17% | 9% |
| Number of jobs | 57,026 | 11,444 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 3.5 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 43% | Bachelor's Degree, 78% |
| Average age | 41 | 40 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 2 |
A bioinformatics scientist specializes in studying biology while utilizing their expertise in computer science. Their responsibilities revolve around developing databases and software for biological advances, improving existing applications as needed, coordinating with different scientists and professionals, and maintaining extensive records of all research and transactions. It is essential to review all data, identify issues, troubleshoot, and perform corrective measures as needed. In a company setting, a bioinformatics scientist must create progress reports and presentations, all while adhering to the company's vision, mission, and goals.
Microbiologists are responsible for studying the microscopic organisms causing infections and environmental damage, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Their work focuses on the identification and growth of these microbes to better understand their characteristics that may help in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious and bacterial diseases. They use sophisticated technologies and machinery to study microbes and perform their tasks. These scientists are also responsible for developing best practices and techniques for routine sampling and research. Microbiologists may work in various settings, including laboratories, research institutes, and hospitals.
Bioinformatics scientists and microbiologists have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Bioinformatics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Average salary | $91,530 | $54,620 |
| Salary range | Between $64,000 And $129,000 | Between $39,000 And $75,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Boston, MA |
| Highest paying state | California | Massachusetts |
| Best paying company | NVIDIA | Battelle |
| Best paying industry | Pharmaceutical | Pharmaceutical |
There are a few differences between a bioinformatics scientist and a microbiologist in terms of educational background:
| Bioinformatics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 43% | Bachelor's Degree, 78% |
| Most common major | Biostatistics | Biology |
| Most common college | Duke University | Stanford University |
Here are the differences between bioinformatics scientists' and microbiologists' demographics:
| Bioinformatics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Average age | 41 | 40 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 81.9% Female, 18.1% | Male, 39.2% Female, 60.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 5.7% Unknown, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 8.8% Asian, 38.6% White, 42.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% | Black or African American, 2.9% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 8.3% Asian, 13.6% White, 69.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 10% |