1

Microbiology Research Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Microbiologist III POSITION NUMBER: 2510-Microbio-III POSITION LOCATION: Atlanta, GA, USA ... Participate in laboratory research that will result in the development and application of advanced ...

Microbiologist III POSITION NUMBER: 2510-Microbio-III POSITION LOCATION: Atlanta, GA, USA ... Participate in laboratory research that will result in the development and application of advanced ...

Microbiologist IV POSITION NUMBER: 2509-Micro-IV POSITION LOCATION: Atlanta, GA, USA ANTICIPATED ... Participate in laboratory research that will result in the development and application of advanced ...

Microbiologist IV POSITION NUMBER: 2509-Micro-IV POSITION LOCATION: Atlanta, GA, USA ANTICIPATED ... Participate in laboratory research that will result in the development and application of advanced ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Microbiology Research information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$20

$32

How much do microbiology research jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiology research in Decatur, GA is $20.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiology Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiology Researcher, you need a strong background in biology and chemistry, advanced laboratory skills, and typically a bachelor’s or graduate degree in microbiology or a related field. Familiarity with techniques such as PCR, microscopy, cell culturing, and data analysis software is essential, as is knowledge of laboratory safety protocols. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating with research teams. These competencies ensure accurate results, scientific integrity, and the ability to advance research objectives successfully.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in microbiology research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in microbiology research often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile techniques to avoid contamination, troubleshooting experimental protocols when results are inconsistent, and managing time effectively due to the unpredictability of microbial growth rates. Addressing these issues involves rigorous attention to laboratory protocols, continuous learning and adaptation to new methodologies, and clear communication with team members to share troubleshooting strategies. Many research teams also hold regular meetings to discuss results and collaboratively solve experimental problems, creating a supportive environment for professional growth.

What is microbiology research?

Microbiology research is the scientific study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to understand their biology, behavior, and effects on humans, animals, plants, and the environment. Researchers in this field investigate how these microorganisms interact, cause disease, and can be utilized in areas like medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Their work often involves laboratory experiments, data analysis, and the development of new techniques or treatments. Microbiology research plays a crucial role in advancing public health, developing antibiotics, and addressing global challenges such as antibiotic resistance.

What is the difference between Microbiology Research vs Microbiologist?

AspectMicrobiology ResearchMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsTypically a Bachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related field; research experienceUsually a Bachelor's degree; some roles require a Master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, universitiesHospitals, clinics, laboratories, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, academia, biotech companiesHealthcare, pharmaceuticals, food industry, environmental agencies

Microbiology Research focuses on conducting experiments and advancing scientific knowledge in microbiology, often within academic or research institutions. Microbiologists apply this knowledge in practical settings like healthcare or industry, often performing diagnostic or quality control tasks. While both roles require microbiology knowledge, research roles emphasize experimentation and discovery, whereas microbiologists focus on application and analysis.

What job categories do people searching Microbiology Research jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiology Research jobs in Decatur, GA are:
Infographic showing various Microbiology Research job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,875 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Microbiologist III

Microbiologist III

IHRC, Inc.

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
JOB TITLE: Microbiologist III
POSITION NUMBER: 2510-Microbio-III
POSITION LOCATION: Atlanta, GA, USA
ANTICIPATED START DATE: 2 weeks after candidate identification
TRAVEL: As required to fulfill the responsibilities of the position
IHRC Inc. seeks a dedicated and experienced Microbiologist to support our clients at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/Coronavirus and Other Respiratory Viruses Division (CORVD). CORVD's mission is to provide the health of people by preventing illness, disability and death from respiratory viruses through public health science and practice in the United States and globally. This position is needed for accomplishing CORVD's mission.
Provide laboratory diagnostic and molecular surveillance support. Examples activities are:
  • Perform molecular assays to detect, type, and characterize respiratory viruses and viral vaccine preventable diseases
  • Design, evaluate, and distribute diagnostic platforms for the detection of COVID and other respiratory viruses
  • Participate in burden of disease studies and etiology studies of respiratory diseases to investigate the potential association and possible causes of respiratory viruses
  • Work within guidelines of auditing bodies such as CMS or CAP
  • Contribute to organizational activities that promote laboratory safety, laboratory quality management systems (QMS), and effective specimen management

Provide laboratory immunological and virological support. Example activities are:
  • Perform serological surveillance for respiratory viruses and assessment of vaccine response in single plex or multiplex format
  • Contribute to the development of new serological assays for surveillance of and evaluation of vaccine response to respiratory viruses
  • Perform advanced cellular immunological assessment of the T cell and B cell response to respiratory virus infection and vaccination
  • Develop monoclonal antibodies against respiratory viruses for small scale production and assessment in serological assays
  • Generate and characterize respiratory virus isolates
  • Perform assays to characterize neutralizing antibodies against respiratory viruses
  • Draft SOPS, worksheets, job aids, validation plans, and validation reports
  • Maintain medical clearance required for working in laboratory that may include respiratory fit testing
  • Attend weekly team meetings, and provide information on current activities
  • Prepare documentation and laboratories for internal and external audits

Provide laboratory respiratory virus sequencing support. Example activities are:
  • Contribute to adaptation of molecular techniques to automated platforms in use in CORVD (e.g., PerkinElmer Zephyr and Tecan Fluent)
  • Participate in burden of disease studies and etiology studies of respiratory diseases to investigate the potential association and possible causes of respiratory viruses
  • Perform advanced molecular detection and sequencing assays and provide technical support in investigation of unknown etiology of severe cases and outbreaks using pathogen discovery approaches
  • Participate in laboratory research that will result in the development and application of advanced molecular techniques and high throughput sequencing analysis to detect and characterize both known and novel emerging viruses

Other activities may include:
  • Draft SOPS, worksheets, job aids, validation plans, and validation reports
  • Maintain medical clearance required for working in laboratory that may include respiratory fit testing
  • Attend weekly team meetings, and provide information on current activities
  • Prepare documentation and laboratories for internal and external audits, and maintain laboratory records
  • Write abstracts for presentations at national or international conferences
  • Present work at national or international conferences
  • Contribute to preparation and publication of peer reviewed manuscript

Requirements
  • MS with 10+ years' experience or PhD with 7-10+ years' experience
  • Work experience in the scientific field, including microbiologist, research microbiologist, biologist, health scientist or related field (preferably in a public health setting)
  • Knowledge and experience of sequencing assays and sequencing platforms
  • Ability to identify gaps in existing resources

Desired Requirements:
  • Demonstrated experience performing wet and dry laboratory work
  • Proficient in sequencing (WGS) and bioinformatics analysis
  • Demonstrated experience in bioinformatics pipeline/workflow development
  • Proficiency in programming and coding as required for running NGS protocols
  • Knowledge of and experience working with clinical data
  • Knowledge of and experience working with human specimens
  • Expertise in the use of Microsoft Office products
  • Ability to be flexible
  • Interpersonal communication: telephone, email, and business etiquette
  • Strong proofreading skill and attention to detail
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Experience working with CDC/NCIRD

Language Skills:
  • The candidate must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English

REQUIREMENT:
  • Must be United States citizen or permanent resident or have authorization for employment in the United States

SALARY: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
To apply for this position:
  • If you are viewing this position on the IHRC Career Center, please click on the "Apply" button.
  • If you are viewing this position on a site other than the IHRC Career Center, you may use the "click to apply" link, or you may apply by visiting our Career Center and searching for the position number listed at the top of this position description.
  • To view all of our open positions, and to apply to those positions in which you may be interested, please visit our Career Center, which can also be reached by visiting www.ihrc.com/Careers and clicking on the "View Opportunities" link.

EEO/vets/disabled