How to Be Infectious Disease Investigator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Infectious disease investigators are essential to research and surveillance of infectious diseases. They conduct investigations to identify the cause and spread of the disease, often tracking down contacts of those infected to better understand the risk factors associated with the disease. Through their work, investigators can provide valuable insight into how a disease is transmitted, how to prevent its spread, and what treatments may be effective.

Their research also helps inform public health policies, providing guidance and advice on how to best protect the public from dangerous diseases. their efforts can help save lives by providing early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases.

Steps How to Become

1. Obtain a bachelor's degree in a scientific field, such as microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, or public health.
2. Complete a master's degree in a related field, such as epidemiology, public health, or infectious disease.
3. Pursue a Ph. D. in epidemiology, public health, or infectious disease.
4. Participate in an internship in infectious disease research or investigation.
5. Obtain a medical license, if applicable.
6. Become certified in epidemiology or infectious disease by the American Board of Medical Specialists (ABMS).
7. Take and pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
8. Apply for a job as an infectious disease investigator with a government agency, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or a private research organization.
9. Participate in continuing education activities related to infectious disease investigation.

When considering an ideal and qualified Infectious Disease Investigator, it is important to take into account several key factors. Experience in the field of epidemiology is essential, as it provides the investigator with the necessary skills to conduct effective investigations and data analysis. A comprehensive understanding of the science behind infectious diseases is also beneficial, as this enables the investigator to develop and apply appropriate strategies for containment.

Furthermore, exceptional communication, problem-solving and organizational skills are essential to allow the investigator to work efficiently and effectively. Finally, the ability to work in a team environment is essential in order to coordinate with other professionals in order to effectively investigate and control infectious diseases. All of these factors contribute to making an ideal and qualified Infectious Disease Investigator.

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Job Description

1. Research Scientist
2. Medical Epidemiologist
3. Clinical Research Associate
4. Public Health Analyst
5. Infection Control Practitioner
6. Clinical Laboratory Scientist
7. Data Analyst
8. Health Educator
9. Outreach Coordinator
10. Program Manager

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of the principles of epidemiology, biostatistics, and health services research
2. Ability to synthesize and interpret data from multiple sources
3. Understanding of infectious disease biology and pathogenesis
4. Expertise in laboratory techniques for identifying and characterizing infectious agents
5. Proficiency in the use of computer software and databases for data analysis
6. Excellent communication skills to effectively communicate findings to public health and medical professionals
7. Critical thinking skills to identify and follow up on leads
8. Ability to work in a team setting, including collaborating with public health professionals and other researchers
9. Familiarity with applicable local, state, and federal regulations and requirements related to infectious disease investigations
10. Knowledge of relevant public health protocols and procedures

Having a good understanding of infectious diseases, as well as the ability to conduct thorough investigations into potential sources, is essential for an infectious disease investigator. The ability to research, analyze, and evaluate data from various sources is necessary to understand the causes of infections and identify potential solutions. having good interpersonal communication skills and the ability to collaborate with experts from multiple fields are essential for successful disease investigations.

Knowing how to develop and maintain a network of contacts is also essential for staying up-to-date on the latest developments in the field. Finally, having strong problem-solving skills and being able to think critically are essential for identifying the root cause of an infection and devising an effective response.

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Frequent Interview Questions

• What inspired you to pursue a career in infectious disease investigation?
• What challenges have you faced in your work as an infectious disease investigator so far?
• How do you ensure accuracy in your investigations?
• What resources do you utilize to stay up to date on the latest research and developments in infectious disease?
• Describe the process you use when conducting an investigation into a new outbreak.
• How do you work with other health professionals to investigate and contain outbreaks of infectious diseases?
• How do you handle difficult conversations with people affected by a disease outbreak that may involve personal or sensitive information?
• In what ways have you contributed to improving public health through your investigations?
• What unique skills, experiences, or training do you bring to the role of an infectious disease investigator?
• How do you balance the demands of your job with other aspects of your life?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Epidemic Modeling Software. Epidemic modeling software is used to simulate the spread of an infectious disease in a population. It is used to analyze the success of public health interventions and to plan for potential outbreaks. (eg: NetLogo)
2. Surveillance System. Surveillance systems are used to collect and monitor data from different sources on an ongoing basis. This data can be used to track the spread of an infectious disease and identify at-risk populations. (eg: Flu Near You)
3. Data Analysis Software. Data analysis software is used to analyze large datasets and identify patterns that can help to understand the spread of an infectious disease. (eg: R)
4. Geographic Information Systems. Geographic information systems are used to analyze geographic data and create visual representations of an infectious disease's spread. (eg: ArcGIS)
5. Social Network Analysis. Social network analysis is used to analyze the relationships between people and how they may be influencing the spread of an infectious disease. (eg: Gephi)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. American Society for Microbiology
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
3. Infectious Diseases Society of America
4. International Society for Infectious Diseases
5. World Health Organization
6. American College of Epidemiology
7. Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network
8. European Scientific Working Group on Influenza
9. International Union of Immunological Societies
10. American Public Health Association

We also have Infectious Disease Research Scientist, Disease Control Officer, and Neurological Disease Research Scientist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Epidemiology. The study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study to control health problems.
2. Microbiology. The branch of science that deals with the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
3. Pathology. The branch of medicine that deals with the study of the cause, nature, and development of diseases.
4. Immunology. The branch of science that deals with the study of the body's immune system and its response to foreign substances.
5. Molecular Biology. The branch of science that deals with the study of the structure, function, and interactions of molecules in living organisms.
6. Virology. The branch of science that deals with the study of viruses, their structure, function, and effects on living organisms.
7. Bacteriology. The branch of science that deals with the study of bacteria, their structure, function, and effects on living organisms.
8. Infectious Disease. A disease caused by the presence of a pathogenic microorganism in a susceptible host.
9. Disease Surveillance. The ongoing systematic collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of data regarding a health-related event for use in public health action to reduce morbidity and mortality.
10. Public Health. The practice of preventing disease and promoting health in a population through organized efforts and informed choices of individuals, organizations, and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Infectious Disease Investigator?

An Infectious Disease Investigator is a public health professional who specializes in researching and responding to infectious diseases. They examine the epidemiology, transmission, and control of a disease, as well as its impact on individuals and communities.

What qualifications are required to become an Infectious Disease Investigator?

To become an Infectious Disease Investigator, you must possess at least a Master's Degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field. Additionally, you must have experience in the field of public health and/or infectious disease investigation.

What are the responsibilities of an Infectious Disease Investigator?

The primary responsibility of an Infectious Disease Investigator is to research and respond to outbreaks of infectious diseases. This includes conducting epidemiological studies, collecting and analyzing data, developing strategies for disease control and prevention, and providing educational outreach to community members.

How much do Infectious Disease Investigators typically earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for Infectious Disease Investigators is $76,223 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

What organizations employ Infectious Disease Investigators?

Infectious Disease Investigators are often employed by local, state, and federal government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state health departments, and public health laboratories. They may also be employed by hospitals, universities, and private research organizations.

What are jobs related with Infectious Disease Investigator?

• Disease Surveillance Epidemiologist
• Autoimmune Disease Researcher
• Genetic Disease Counselor
• Cardiovascular Disease Research Scientist
• Disease Management Coordinator
• Disease Outreach Coordinator
• Disease Prevention Specialist

Web Resources

• Baldridge named infectious diseases investigator medicine.wustl.edu
• Investigator Labs - Division of Infectious Diseases infectiousdiseases.wustl.edu
• Division of Infectious Diseases Investigator Profiles medschool.cuanschutz.edu