ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Virologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

The candidate is expected to work independently under the supervision of a molecular virologist and a chemical engineer to delineate how and why hepatitis E virus infects across species barriers and ...

People also search for

All JobsVirologist Jobs

Virologist information

See salary details

$69K

$94K

$146K

How much do virologist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for virologist in the United States is $93,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Virologist, you need a strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, usually supported by an advanced degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques like PCR, cell culture, electron microscopy, and bioinformatics software is essential, along with safety certifications for handling infectious agents. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication skills help virologists interpret complex data and collaborate on research teams. These skills ensure accurate research outcomes, safe laboratory practices, and successful contributions to scientific understanding and public health.

What are some common challenges virologists face when working in a laboratory setting?

Virologists often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict biosafety protocols to prevent contamination and ensure personal safety, especially when handling highly infectious agents. They also need to adapt quickly to evolving research methods and technologies, which may require ongoing training. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including epidemiologists and clinicians, can present communication and coordination hurdles, but is essential for comprehensive research. Additionally, securing research funding and publishing findings in reputable journals are ongoing pressures that virologists navigate as part of their career.

What does a virologist do?

A virologist is a scientist who studies viruses and virus-like agents, including their structure, function, and ways they infect and interact with host organisms. Their work often involves identifying, classifying, and understanding how viruses spread, as well as developing ways to prevent or treat viral infections. Virologists may work in research, clinical diagnostics, public health, or pharmaceutical development, contributing to the control and prevention of viral diseases.

What is the difference between Virologist vs Microbiologist?

AspectVirologistMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsTypically a Ph.D. in virology, microbiology, or related fieldUsually a bachelor's or master's degree in microbiology or related field; advanced roles may require a Ph.D.
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, hospitals, government agencies focusing on virusesLabs, healthcare, environmental agencies working with various microorganisms
Industry UsagePrimarily in healthcare, research, and public health sectorsHealthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, food safety

Virologists specialize in studying viruses, their structure, and behavior, often focusing on viral diseases. Microbiologists have a broader scope, studying all microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in focus and application areas.

More about Virologist jobs
What job categories do people searching Virologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Virologist jobs are:
Virologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 78% Physical, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,970 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Infecious Disease Physician - Physicians Only Apply - Perm

Murdock Consulting

Houston, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Medical Doctors Only Apply. A Infecious Disease Physician practice is seeking a qualified physician for Houston, TX. This and other physician jobs brought to you by ExactMD. Physician / Infectious Disease / Houston, TX Infectious Disease Physician needed in Houston, Texas. • Physician needed to work as a virologist in an office environment consulting with physicians.

• 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. • with no call and no weekends.

• This position provides great stability with a built-in patient base, no overhead, no volume requirements and a great salary. • You go to work, practice medicine, go home at 5:00 and you don't have to worry about billing, insurance, or after hours call. • Outstanding benefits package includes medical, dental and a 7% 401K match with no contribution required from you.

• After just a few years, you can retire with a pension that is 70% of your salary for the rest of your life! • Must have a Texas license and have a DEA and DPS. Compensation and Benefits: $180,000 - $220,000 based on experience plus great benefits and bonus Excellent benefits Group Medical Dental Paid Time Off (PTO) Continuing education allowance and time off Licensing, certification, and malpractice insurance paid Retirement plan Profit sharing Much more

Apply