What is the FRCPath Microbiology examination?

FRCPath Microbiology is an examination organised by the Royal College of Pathologists to assess the trainees in the UK training programme (also called the infection training programme) to become microbiologists, virologists or infectious diseases doctors/practitioners.

Microbiologists from other countries can take this exam as well.

Some common questions

Will FRCPath Microbiology help me to get a job as a microbiologist in the UK?

Finishing FRCPath Microbiology will not get you a job, but it will make it easier for you to get one.

Let me explain my understanding:
(one word of caution - the rules change all the time, and although I try, I may not know all of them. You must do your own research. A good employment agency may help you as it is their job to direct you to the right path.

First, you will need GMC registration to work in the UK as a doctor.

By finishing FRCPath Microbiology, you can apply for GMC registration;
Every doctor practising in the UK must have GMC registration. There are various ways of getting a GMC registration - PLAB, sponsorship, FRCPath, other qualifying examinations etc. Look at this page for this information. Completing FRCPath is one of these routes.
You may also look at the RCPath MTI scheme & sponsorship scheme.

Once you have GMC registration, you can join the UK training programme. However, in that case, you have to compete with local graduates in an interview process. Whichever level you wish to enter, you have to show equivalent competency. To become a consultant, you have to have CESR, which shows that you are equivalent competency to someone who finished their training in the UK training programme.

If you do not want to or manage to get into the training programme, you can access the service route. Here you can find a job as a trust grade or speciality/specialist doctor. Each has its requirements. See the RCPath position here.

Hospitals, when they advertise these posts, they set the criteria/requirements for you based on some national criteria.

These posts are advertised by individual hospitals when they are short of microbiologists. You can find the job adverts on BMJ and NHS Jobs website.
You must also apply for a suitable job and go through the interview process to get a job.

From these jobs, you can progress to become a consultant if you can get CESR, or you can continue to work as long as you want, or the hospital needs your service.

These rules and requirements may change; hence you must check yourself for up-to-date rules and regulations. Some links that can help you -