Microbiology is the study of the biology of microorganisms and how they interact with their surroundings. Microbiologists explore the diversity of microbial life and examine what allows some organisms to live in symbiotic relationship with the host organisms while others cause disease. Specialization in the field of microbiology encompasses the study of the fundamental processes of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, as well as the study of host defense systems that counter microbial infection.

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