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Mycology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Serve as a scientific lead for mycology-focused plant pathology research, including fungal pathogen biology, host-pathogen interactions, assay development, and assay interpretation.Develop, validate ...

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$47K

$93.7K

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How much do mycology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for mycology in the United States is $93,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mycology?

Mycology is the scientific study of fungi, including their genetic and biochemical properties, their taxonomy, and their use to humans as a source for medicine, food, and in biotechnology. Mycologists also study the roles of fungi in the environment, such as their importance in decomposing organic matter and forming symbiotic relationships with plants. The field covers a wide variety of organisms, from mushrooms and molds to yeasts. Mycology has applications in agriculture, medicine, ecology, and industry.

How to get a job in mycology?

To get a job in mycology, you need an education in biology through a bachelor’s degree or higher. Studies and hands-on experience in environmental science, botany, ecology, chemistry, conservation, or another life science can satisfy employers’ requirements for entry-level mycology roles, such as lab assistant or research assistant jobs. Minimum qualifications for mycologist and research mycology roles include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in mycology, ecology, fermentation, forest pathology, or biology. Experience working with and maintaining laboratory equipment, familiarity with common fungi and mycology, and physical stamina for fieldwork are necessary skills in both entry-level and higher-level mycology roles.

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

To thrive as a Mycologist, you need a background in biology or microbiology with specialized knowledge in fungal taxonomy, ecology, and laboratory research, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, molecular analysis techniques (such as PCR and DNA sequencing), and data analysis software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for conducting research and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for accurately identifying fungi, advancing scientific understanding, and addressing real-world challenges like agriculture, medicine, and environmental sustainability.

What are some common challenges mycologists face when conducting field research, and how can they be addressed?

Mycologists often encounter challenges such as identifying fungi in diverse and sometimes remote environments, dealing with variable weather conditions, and ensuring accurate specimen collection and preservation. To address these, mycologists typically use detailed field guides, GPS systems for location tracking, and specialized collection kits to maintain specimen integrity. Collaborating with local researchers and following standardized protocols also help ensure reliable data and successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Mycology vs Microbiology?

AspectMycologyMicrobiology
Required CredentialsMycology degrees or certifications, mycological research experienceMicrobiology degrees, microbiology lab certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, fieldwork in fungi habitatsHospitals, labs, research facilities, environmental testing
Industry UsageFungal research, medical mycology, agricultureMedical, environmental, industrial microbiology

Mycology focuses specifically on fungi, including mushrooms and molds, often involving research, medical diagnosis, and agriculture. Microbiology covers a broader range of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi, with applications across healthcare, industry, and environmental sectors. While both fields require similar scientific credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

How much money do mycologists make?

Mycologists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment sector. On average, they earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with those in research or academia potentially earning higher salaries with advanced degrees and specialized skills in fungal identification and laboratory techniques.

What careers involve mycology?

Careers involving mycology include roles such as mycologist, research scientist, and laboratory technician, often working in academic, government, or private sector settings. These jobs typically require knowledge of fungi identification, laboratory skills, and sometimes advanced degrees in biology or related fields.

What cities are hiring for Mycology jobs?

Cities with the most Mycology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mycology jobs?

The most popular types of Mycology jobs are:

What states have the most Mycology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mycology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Mycology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,656 per year, or $45 per hour.

Research Assistant Professor (Career-Track)

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


University Of Arizona rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Assistant Professor (Career-Track)

Research Assistant Professor (Career-Track)

Posting Number req26728

Department Pharmacology and Toxicology

Department Website Link https://www.pharmacy.arizona.edu/departments-directory/pharmacology-toxicology-department

Medical Sub-Speciality

Location Tucson Campus

Address Tucson, AZ USA

The Research Assistant Professor in Virology will develop antifungals against fungal pathogens such as Cryptococcusneoformans, Candida auris, C. albicans, Coccidioides immitus, and Aspergillus fumigatus. The role involves designing andexecuting assays to identify and validate antifungal candidates and integrating mycology with drug discovery to advancepreclinical therapeutics.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits
  • Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services.

Antifungal Discovery and Screening
  • Design, develop, and execute in vitro assays to identify and characterizesmall-molecule and biologic antifungal candidates against emerging viruses, including Cryptococcus neoformans, Candidaauris, C. albicans, Coccidioides immitus, and Aspergillus fumigatus.
In Vivo Evaluation of Antifungals
  • Conduct and oversee preclinical in vivo studies in relevant animal models to assess efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of antifungal candidates.
Mechanistic mycology Studies
  • Investigate fungal replication, pathogenesis, and host-fungi interactions to inform rational drug design and optimization of antifungal therapeutics.
Collaboration and Project Management
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including medicinal chemists, structural biologists, and clinicians to advance antiviral projects from discovery to preclinical development.
Scientific Communication and Reporting
  • Prepare manuscripts, grant reports, and presentations to disseminate research findings and support funding and regulatory requirements.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Strong knowledge of mycology, fungal replication mechanisms, and host–fungus interactions.
  • Skilled in designing and performing in vitro antifungal assays, cell culture techniques, and molecular biology methods.
  • Skilled in conducting and interpreting in vivo animal studies for infectious diseases, including efficacy and PK/PD evaluation.
  • Ability to analyze, interpret, and present complex scientific data clearly in written and oral formats.
  • Demonstrated skills in experimental design, troubleshooting, and independent problem-solving.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple projects effectively.
  • Knowledge and familiarity with biosafety regulations and experience working in BSL-2/BSL-3 laboratory environments
Minimum Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Virology, Mycology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related biomedical field, with at least 5 years of relevant research experience in antifungal drug discovery or molecular mycology.
  • Demonstrated expertise in in vitro mycology assays and experience with in vivo animal models for infectious diseases are required.
  • A strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and experience working in multidisciplinary research teams is expected.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience in antifungal drug discovery and development.
  • Experience working with high-containment fungi and in BSL-3 laboratory settings.
  • Prior experience in antiviral development against fungal pathogens and familiarity with BSL-2/BSL-3 laboratory practices is highly desirable.

Rank Assistant Professor

FLSA Exempt

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week 40

Job FTE 1.0

Work Calendar Fiscal

Job Category Faculty

Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay DOE

Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies 1

Target Hire Date

Expected End Date

Contact Information for Candidates Hongmin Li I hli001@pharmacy.arizona.edu

Open Date 8/7/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

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