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The differences between genomics 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 genomics scientist, becoming a microbiologist takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a genomics scientist has an average salary of $90,194, which is higher than the $54,620 average annual salary of a microbiologist.
The top three skills for a genomics scientist include data analysis, NGS and QC. The most important skills for a microbiologist are lab equipment, microbiology lab, and environmental monitoring.
| Genomics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Yearly salary | $90,194 | $54,620 |
| Hourly rate | $43.36 | $26.26 |
| Growth rate | 17% | 9% |
| Number of jobs | 51,033 | 11,444 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 3.5 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 50% | Bachelor's Degree, 78% |
| Average age | 40 | 40 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 2 |
Genomics scientists are healthcare professionals who are responsible for examining the samples of the nucleic acid of patients to identify genetic and genomic alterations that may cause inherited diseases or conditions. These scientists are required to examine cells for possible anomalies in the fetus where single-gene disorders have been identified through DNA analysis of families. They must conduct carrier testing and risk assessment for individuals who are at risk of single-gene disorders. Genomics scientists must also perform confirmation of diagnosis for patients with both inherited and acquired conditions.
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.
Genomics scientists and microbiologists have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Genomics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Average salary | $90,194 | $54,620 |
| Salary range | Between $56,000 And $143,000 | 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 |
There are a few differences between a genomics scientist and a microbiologist in terms of educational background:
| Genomics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 50% | Bachelor's Degree, 78% |
| Most common major | Biology | Biology |
| Most common college | Stanford University | Stanford University |
Here are the differences between genomics scientists' and microbiologists' demographics:
| Genomics Scientist | Microbiologist | |
| Average age | 40 | 40 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 44.4% Female, 55.6% | Male, 39.2% Female, 60.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 2.3% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 6.3% Asian, 11.1% White, 74.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6% | 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 | 10% | 10% |