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Molecular Microbiologist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Post-Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

... biology, microbiological culture, and molecular techniques (such as gene cloning and expression, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR), mammalian cell culture, confocal microscopy, protein purification and ...

Contemporaries

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Biological Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$35 - $60/hr

Bachelor's degree or higher in Biology, Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related scientific field. * Demonstrated professional ...

Inova

Medical Laboratory Scientist 1

Fairfax, VA · On-site

... Molecular Biology (MB), Specialist in Microbiology (SMB), Specialist in Microbiology (SM), Specialist in Chemistry (SC), Clinical Laboratory Technologist (HEW),International Medical Laboratory ...

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All JobsMolecular Microbiologist JobsMolecular Microbiologist Jobs in Reston, VA

Molecular Microbiologist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$35.9K

$73.5K

$131.1K

How much do molecular microbiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for molecular microbiologist in Reston, VA is $73,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $86,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a molecular microbiologist?

Molecular microbiologists are scientists who study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites at the molecular and genetic levels. They use advanced techniques to analyze how these microbes function, interact with their environments, and cause diseases. Their work often involves DNA sequencing, gene editing, and protein analysis to better understand microbial physiology and develop new treatments, diagnostics, or biotechnology applications.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a molecular microbiologist?

To thrive as a Molecular Microbiologist, a strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry is essential, typically supported by a relevant degree (BSc, MSc, or PhD). Proficiency in laboratory techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and experience with lab management software or bioinformatics tools is highly valued. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with research teams. These skills ensure rigorous experimental design, accurate results, and productive teamwork in advancing scientific understanding and applications.

What are common challenges molecular microbiologists face when working with complex biological samples?

Molecular microbiologists often encounter challenges such as contamination, degradation of nucleic acids, and difficulty in isolating target microorganisms from complex environmental or clinical samples. These issues can impact the reliability and reproducibility of experimental results. To address these challenges, professionals typically employ rigorous aseptic techniques, use specialized sample preparation protocols, and incorporate appropriate controls. Collaborating closely with bioinformaticians and other laboratory specialists also helps ensure data integrity and accurate analysis.

What is the difference between Molecular Microbiologist vs Microbiologist?

AspectMolecular MicrobiologistMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related fields; often requires lab certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology or related fields; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, healthcare settings focusing on genetic and molecular analysisHospitals, public health labs, research institutions working on microbial identification and analysis
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, research labsPublic health agencies, hospitals, environmental agencies

The main difference between a Molecular Microbiologist and a Microbiologist lies in their focus areas. Molecular Microbiologists specialize in genetic and molecular techniques to study microbes, often working in research and biotech industries. Microbiologists have a broader scope, including studying microbes' roles in health, environment, and disease. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their specific applications and work environments.

Are molecular microbiologists in high demand?

Molecular microbiologists are in high demand due to their expertise in studying microorganisms at the genetic level, which is essential for research, healthcare, and biotechnology industries. Employment opportunities are strong in laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions, especially for those with skills in molecular techniques and bioinformatics.

What job categories do people searching Molecular Microbiologist jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Molecular Microbiologist jobs in Reston, VA are:

Molecular Microbiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Molecular Microbiologist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,498 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Genome Data Curator / Molecular Biologist - GenBank Submissions

Computercraft Corporation

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Do you enjoy working directly with researchers to solve genome-submission problems and prepare high-quality genomic data for public release?
Computercraft is seeking a Genome Data Curator/Molecular Biologist to support the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), part of the National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.
In this hands-on, service-oriented role, you will receive, process, analyze, and maintain genome and chromosome sequencing datasets submitted to GenBank. Working directly with researchers and NCBI experts, you will troubleshoot submission and annotation issues, provide scientific support, and prepare genomic data for release through the public database.
Computercraft has provided scientific expertise supporting GenBank continuously since 1991. Learn more at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/genbank/.
Job Responsibilities
  • Receive, process, and maintain genome and chromosome sequence datasets submitted to GenBank.
  • Review whole-genome sequence and annotation data from individual laboratories and large-scale sequencing projects.
  • Evaluate genome submissions for biological integrity, consistency, accuracy, and completeness.
  • Analyze sequence data and work with researchers to prepare submissions for release to the public database.
  • Communicate directly with data depositors and genomic-data users to resolve submission, annotation, and data-quality issues.
  • Provide scientific help-desk support related to GenBank genome submissions and associated NCBI resources.
  • Document issues and resolutions clearly and maintain accurate curation and administrative records.
  • Perform database-curation activities supporting the timely maintenance and release of GenBank genome records.
  • Collaborate with NCBI scientists, bioinformaticians, software developers, and other technical team members.
  • Interest in evolving technologies, including automated and AI-assisted workflows
Required Skills/Experience
  • Ph.D. in molecular biology, genetics, genomics, microbiology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience in molecular biology, genomics, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Aptitude for DNA sequence analysis and learning specialized scientific software.
  • Strong computer skills and the ability to work carefully with complex scientific data.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical issues to researchers.
  • Strong organization, attention to detail, and scientific problem-solving ability.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Ability to work on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland, at least three days per week.
  • Ability to obtain Public Trust clearance
Desired Skills/Experience
  • Experience working in a UNIX/Linux environment.
  • Familiarity with next-generation DNA sequencing, whole-genome sequencing, and genome-assembly technologies.
  • Coding experience in Python.
  • Familiarity with public molecular biology resources such as GenBank, RefSeq, SRA, UniProt, or PDB.
Who May Be a Good Fit
This opportunity may be especially attractive to a Ph.D.-trained molecular biologist, genomic scientist, or postdoctoral researcher who enjoys detailed problem-solving and direct interaction with researchers. Formal data-curation experience is helpful but is not required when a candidate demonstrates strong genome-analysis, communication, computer, and troubleshooting skills.
Computercraft is recruiting for multiple GenBank curation opportunities. Candidates should apply to the position that most closely matches their experience and interests. Qualified applicants may also be considered for other GenBank openings.Compensation and Benefits
The anticipated salary range for this position is $90,000-$120,000 annually.
Computercraft offers an excellent benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and disability and life insurance; a 401(k) plan with matching; paid leave starting at 128 hours/year for the first 3 years of employment; and 11 paid holidays. We also offer the opportunity for a positive work-life balance with a standard 40-hour work week and the chance to work alongside a team of highly accomplished professionals.
To learn about other Computercraft job opportunities, please visit the Careers section of our website: https://www.computercraft-usa.com/.
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