The science of Microbiology includes numerous sub-specialty sciences that reflect the diversity of microbial life forms (e.g. bacteriology, virology, and mycology, etc.) as well as other sub-specialties that reflect their significance in applied areas like medical microbiology/infectious diseases, immunology, microbial ecology and bioremediation, food microbiology, industrial microbiology, and biotechnology. 

Areas of basic sciences like biochemistry, molecular biology, and molecular genetics are also important sciences in Microbiology. Throughout its history, Microbiology has played key roles in the development of our understanding of basic biochemical and genetic processes, control of infectious diseases, production of increased food supplies, and production of numerous commercial products that continue to enrich the quality of our lives.