Carol Pierce's career at the University at Buffalo began in 1979 when she became a clinical instructor in the Department of Medical Technology. She received her M.A. in Medical Technology (1978) and her Ph.D. in Microbiology (1981) from UB. In 1980, Pierce became an assistant professor in the Department of Medical Technology and from 1983-1993, she was the chair of the department. While at UB, Pierce taught courses on parasitology and microbiology.