Think of the human immune system like the military. There are different branches that each serve a unique function in defending the body against diseases and other damaging foreign bodies. It identifies alien bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites lurking in the body, and then sends in its troops - white... Continue Reading
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Explore Career What are the typical responsibilities of an Immunologist?
An Immunologist would typically need to:
Immunologists typically work in laboratories or hospitals and clinics. You may need to visit other hospitals or clinics, but travel during the working day is uncommon. You may also work in academic settings and industrial research. In a laboratory-based role, you will liaise closely with medical and other hospital staff. A clinical role will put you in more direct touch with patients and their families and other clinical professionals.
Immunologists generally work a 37.5 hour-week, Monday to Friday. You may also be required to work a shift pattern. Opportunities for part-time work are available.
The dress code would vary depending on the kind of job and the type of medical facility you work in. Patients prefer their health care providers to wear white coats rather than scrubs or dress clothes. A uniform that is taken care of and fits right, closed-toe shoes, short or secured hair, and subtle and mild scents go a long way in establishing patient confidence.
Most Immunologists are employed by government health services or private healthcare groups. Self-employment is not a popular option. Employment vacancies are advertised online by recruitment agencies and career services, in newspapers, and scientific publications.
Immunologists are generally employed by:
Professional associations and organizations are a crucial resource for those interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more looks excellent on your resume to bolster your credentials and qualifications as an Immunologist.
Opt for as many health and science classes as possible in school, and participate in science clubs. A three-year residency in internal medicine or pediatrics followed by at least a two-year fellowship in Immunology is par for the course.
Work experience, paid or voluntary, within the Immunology department of a recognized hospital would prove helpful. Additional knowledge may be gained through publications in the field and personal experiences.
Promising Immunologists usually earn a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences, biological sciences, immunology, microbiology, genetics, or biochemistry before passing the locally valid admissions test to the medical stream. Chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and writing are essential prerequisites for admission to some medical schools. Earning an M.D. degree and a license to practice medicine can take ten or more years of education and training after high school.
Certification from accredited institutes of allergy and Immunology usually requires a valid medical license and proof of residency. It also requires a written evaluation from the residency director - a review of the candidate's professional knowledge and behavior, clinical judgment, and attitude.
Dual certification may be available in Immunology and pediatric pulmonology, adult rheumatology, or pediatric rheumatology.
Career progression is driven by performance, experience, and acquisition of professional qualifications. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years.
Progression to Consultant and then Deputy Head or Head of the department would require further training to manage a large department or a major departmental section. Advanced budgeting and administration skills are often required at such a level. Some Immunologists follow an academic career, while others choose to work in an industry or the scientific civil service.
A career in Immunology may suit you if you enjoy a challenge, have a strong background in life science, and are passionate about helping those in need.
Qualified Immunologists must keep up to date with the latest breakthroughs in research and analysis techniques. Further study for a PhD or further study and training with a relevant professional body will help promote your career as an Immunologist.
Continuing professional development (CPD) is mandatory for members of local accredited professional organizations. It may include attending conferences, workshops, and lectures, participating in the publication of peer-reviewed journals, presenting research findings at conferences, undertaking overseas work exchanges, and applying for research grants. It provides opportunities to network with as well as access to advice and support from fellow professionals.
An Immunologist is a specialized medical doctor trained in managing problems related to the immune system, such as allergies and autoimmune diseases. Doctors in other fields of medicine refer their patients to Immunologists if they suspect their patient’s medical condition has to do with the immune system.
Immune System Disorders
Many diseases occur when the immune system behaves incorrectly. Immunodeficiency occurs when parts of the immune system fail to respond adequately to a harmful foreign substance or organism. Autoimmunity occurs when the immune system fails to recognize, and attacks the very tissue it is meant to protect. Hypersensitivity occurs when the immune system responds inappropriately to harmless compounds.
Areas of Intervention
Immunologists typically work in the areas of healthcare, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. Those employed by health services tend to be qualified doctors specializing in the study of diseases or allergies or scientists focused on biomedical research in a clinical research laboratory.
Research
Immunologists try to understand how and why the immune system malfunctions and causes disease. Many find their place conducting biomedical research and teaching medical students instead of practicing.
Immunologists in the medical field, work in laboratories, developing new diagnostic techniques and therapies. They may also work in clinics discussing patient treatment strategies.
Immunologists working in pharmaceutical and biotechnical companies conduct research to improve existing medical products and therapies or develop new ones.
Immunologists in the area of veterinary science research better ways of improving animal healthcare by preventing disease, and by providing treatment to those animals suffering from infections and other immunological conditions.
Collaboration for a Global Cause
Immunologists from different countries collaborate on global health issues, such as vaccine-preventable diseases, emerging infectious diseases, HIV/AIDS, malaria, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, cancer, and other neglected infectious diseases.
There are many intricacies about a body’s natural defense system that are still unknown, and the way ahead is full of pitfalls and difficulties. There is no danger of a shortage of forthcoming excitement in Immunology if you enjoy a challenge and are passionate about helping those in need. As always, the highlights of tomorrow are the unpredictabilities of today.
Lack of criticism...be generous in the extreme with your time, ideas, reagents, and enthusiasm...science should be fun and not a sterile quest for academic knowledge.
When you make your environment so clean, you minimize so many foreign pathogens that you minimize the development of the immune system!
What do Immunologists do?
An Immunologist would typically need to:
Accredited
$208,000
