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Virology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of South Florida

Open Rank- Virology

Tampa, FL · On-site

$250K/yr

RESEARCH-Carry out research in virology, publish, obtain high level grants including NIH grants. Act as Principal investigator, head of a research group. Contribute to recruit faculty and mentor USF ...

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How much do virology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for virology in the United States is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is Virology?

Virology is the study of viruses and virus-like pathogens. This field frequently uses laboratory research to study the structure, classification, and evolution of viruses, as well as their interactions with host cells and the way other living creatures fight them. Virology also focuses on the spread of infectious disease, including threats like the common cold, rabies, yellow fever, and polio. Virologists often work with research centers, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies to develop vaccines that help fight viral infections. More recently, virology has started to focus on using viruses or virus-like structures for medical treatments, such as mapping neurons in the brain.

What is virology?

Virology is the branch of science that focuses on the study of viruses and virus-like agents. It covers the structure, classification, evolution, and genetics of viruses, as well as how they infect and interact with host organisms. Virologists also study the diseases caused by viruses, methods of prevention, and treatments such as vaccines and antiviral drugs. This field is important for understanding and controlling viral outbreaks and pandemics.

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 immunology, typically supported by an advanced degree (PhD or MD) in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as PCR, ELISA, cell culture, and data analysis software is essential, and certifications in biosafety may be required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong collaboration skills help Virologists excel in research and diagnostic environments. These skills ensure accurate, safe research and contribute to advances in understanding and combating viral diseases.

What are some common challenges faced by virologists working in a research laboratory setting?

Virologists in research laboratories often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict biosafety protocols, especially when working with highly infectious agents. Additionally, viral cultures can be unpredictable, requiring patience and troubleshooting to achieve reliable experimental results. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including epidemiologists and molecular biologists, is crucial but can also present coordination challenges. Staying current with rapidly evolving scientific literature and adapting to new technologies are also ongoing aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Virology vs Microbiology?

AspectVirologyMicrobiology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Virology, Microbiology, or related fields; often requires specialized virology trainingBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Biology, or related fields; broader microbiology certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on viruses, infectious disease research, vaccine developmentVaried settings including clinical labs, research, environmental testing, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare agenciesHospitals, public health labs, biotech firms, environmental agencies

While both virologists and microbiologists work in laboratory settings and study microorganisms, virologists specialize specifically in viruses, their structure, and behavior. Microbiologists have a broader focus on all microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Virology jobs
What cities are hiring for Virology jobs? Cities with the most Virology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Virology jobs? The most popular types of Virology jobs are:
What states have the most Virology jobs? States with the most job openings for Virology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Virology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Virology jobs are:
Virology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 73% Physical, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,305 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
(Sr/Exec) Director, Biology (Virology)

(Sr/Exec) Director, Biology (Virology)

Work In Biotech

Seattle, WA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

(Sr/Exec) Director, Biology (Virology)

Location: [Seattle, WA / Bay Area | Hybrid]

Company: Stealth-mode Biotechnology Company


The Role

The Director, Biology (Virology) will be a key scientific leader within the discovery organization, responsible for driving virology strategy and execution across all antiviral programs. Will lead hands-on efforts spanning target validation, assay development, candidate profiling, and translational virology, with direct impact on development candidate selection and IND-enabling readiness.


Key Responsibilities

Virology Strategy & Program Leadership

  • Lead virology efforts across one or more programs, aligning with broader discovery strategy set by senior leadership
  • Drive target validation and mechanistic understanding of viral infection, pathogenesis, and immune protection
  • Contribute to candidate profile definition (potency, breadth, durability) grounded in viral biology and clinical context


Virology & Antiviral Discovery Execution

  • Design, develop, and oversee virologically relevant assay systems, including:
  • Viral neutralization assays (live virus and pseudovirus)
  • Cell-based infection models using clinically relevant strains and variants
  • High-throughput or medium-throughput screening assays for biologic candidates
  • Lead viral isolate sourcing, propagation, and characterization, including variant panels relevant to clinical strategy
  • Drive mechanistic studies of viral entry, replication, and immune evasion
  • Execute and/or oversee epitope mapping, escape analysis, and resistance profiling
  • Integrate in vitro and in vivo models to evaluate antiviral activity and translational relevance
  • Define and interpret correlates of protection and functional immune readouts


Candidate Advancement & IND-Enabling Support

  • Generate decision-quality data packages to support candidate selection and progression
  • Partner in the design and execution of:
  • In vivo pharmacology and efficacy studies
  • PK/PD and dose-response characterization
  • Nonclinical safety and toxicology studies (in collaboration with development teams)
  • Ensure virology and pharmacology data are aligned with regulatory expectations for IND-enabling packages
  • Contribute to IND documentation and regulatory interactions as needed


Externalized Research & Operations

  • Manage and execute a hybrid internal/external research model, including CROs, academic collaborators, and specialized virology labs
  • Serve as a key scientific point of contact for external partners, ensuring high-quality data generation and timelines
  • Maintain high standards for experimental design, data integrity, and reproducibility


Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with protein sciences, antibody engineering, DMPK, toxicology, and CMC teams to ensure integrated candidate development
  • Contribute to cross-functional decision-making, balancing potency, breadth, developability, and timelines
  • Communicate data and insights clearly to senior leadership and broader teams


Scientific Engagement

  • Stay current with emerging science in virology, immunology, and antiviral therapeutics
  • Engage with external experts and KOLs to inform program strategy


Qualifications

Required

  • PhD (or equivalent) in virology, immunology, or related field
  • 10–15 years of relevant experience in biotech or pharma
  • Deep expertise in viral biology and in vitro/in vivo virology systems
  • Demonstrated experience advancing biologic or antiviral programs in discovery and preclinical stages
  • Strong track record of hands-on experimental leadership and program execution


Strongly Preferred

  • Direct experience with antiviral monoclonal antibodies or protein-based therapeutics
  • Experience with respiratory viruses (e.g., RSV, influenza, coronaviruses)
  • Familiarity with IND-enabling studies and regulatory expectations
  • Experience working in externally enabled research models (CROs/academic labs)


Leadership Profile

  • Scientifically rigorous and detail-oriented, with strong experimental instincts
  • Highly collaborative, with the ability to influence across functions without formal authority
  • Execution-focused, with a bias toward clarity, speed, and decision-making
  • Comfortable operating in a lean, fast-moving startup environment

Apply