Would I be restricted to working in a lab?
Very likely, depending on your major (which I'm assuming is general biology, right?)
Would I be restricted to working in a lab? Most of the job searches I've turned up online are mainly lab-based, and a lot of them require Ph. D.s in very specific fields.
They say that, but not necessarily.
Is it a good idea to work for a little while before getting a Ph. D.?
No, you will lose sight of your goal - money corrupts all
.
Would that put me at a disadvantage if I decided to apply for a Ph. D. program a few years later?
Do it as you're still young and fresh-minded.
I'm actually interested in the study of infectious diseases (and also, cancer), but my master's program does not offer that.
Then you must find a school that does! Follow what you're most interested in.
Does anyone have any suggestions of institutions/labs I could apply to for a job involving that subject area, so I can get a feel of whether it's something I'd like to pursue for a Ph. D.?
A real good friend of mine has a masters in that exact same field (pathogens and immunology) and he worked at a hospital lab for 10 years before he decided to become a high school teacher.
If you're becoming a Ph.D., you know that one of your duties is to teach! Why not look for a TA job at your university. It pays the bills and keeps your knowledge very recent.
My two cents.
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