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Virology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scientist I - Virology

Foster City, CA ยท On-site

$115 - $125/hr

Scientist I - Virology Foster City, CA, United States Duration: Long term contract (possibility of further extension) Pay Rate: $57.50/hr on W2 + Medical Benefits, Paid Sick leave, 401K ...

Scientist, HIV Virology

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$110 - $124/hr

When the company has questions about HIV biology, virology, or assay design, you've got all the answers. * Stand up the assay menu. Viral load, infectivity, latency reactivation, neutralization ...

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Virology (HIV) Community MSL / Regional Medical Scientific Director to join our team. This remote position will be based in CA covering the West Region ...

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Virology (HIV) Community MSL / Regional Medical Scientific Director to join our team. This remote position will be based in CA covering the West Region ...

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Showing results 1-20

Virology information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$32

How much do virology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for virology in California is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.42 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.

Are virologists in high demand?

Virologists are in increasing demand due to ongoing research in infectious diseases and public health. Employment opportunities are often found in healthcare, research institutions, and government agencies, with a need for advanced degrees and laboratory skills. The field is expected to grow as global health concerns continue to prioritize virology expertise.

How much money do virologists make?

Virologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Those with advanced degrees and specialized skills in laboratory techniques or research may earn higher salaries, especially in government or private industry roles.

What jobs can you get with a virology degree?

A virology degree can lead to careers such as virologist, research scientist, laboratory technician, or public health analyst. These roles often involve working in laboratories, conducting experiments, analyzing viral pathogens, and may require knowledge of microbiology, molecular biology, and relevant safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Virology jobs in California?

The most popular types of Virology jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Virology jobs?

Cities in California with the most Virology job openings:

Infographic showing various Virology job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 63% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,660 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Research Associate, Clinical Virology

South San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Assembly Biosciences, Inc.
Biotechnology Research and Developmentย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$87K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY


Position Title: Research Associate, Clinical Virology

Reports to: Associate Director, Clinical Virology

Status: Regular, Full-time, Exempt

Location: South San Francisco, CA

Summary: We are seeking a creative and highly motivated Research Associate to join our Clinical Virology team at our South San Francisco location. You will work closely with members of the clinical virology team to support antiviral drug discovery and development.

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Performing testing of clinical isolates to assess viral replication, fitness, and drug susceptibility
  • Designing and executing in vitro resistance selection experiments
  • Characterizing resistance-associated substitutions through both phenotypic and genotypic analyses
  • Generating and evaluating recombinant viruses carrying clinically relevant mutations
  • Performing viral propagation, titration, infectivity, and replication assays
  • Conducting nucleic acid extraction, qPCR, RT-qPCR, and related molecular assays
  • Collaborating with senior research members and cross-functional teams to analyze data, interpret results, and prepare technical reports and study summaries
  • Effectively supporting multiple projects and learning new techniques to support novel exploratory discovery work, as needed
  • Utilizing data analysis software and MS Office applications
  • Participating in general lab maintenance including reagent preparation, ordering of general lab supplies, and maintenance of equipment

This job description outlines the primary duties and responsibilities of the role; however, it is not intended to be all-inclusive. The scope of responsibilities may be modified, expanded, or adjusted at the discretion of the organization to meet evolving business needs.


Qualifications Include:

  • Sc./M.S. or equivalent degree in Virology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or relevant scientific discipline
  • Minimum of 2 - 5 years of relevant experience in industrial or academic settings, preference given to experience in biomarker and translational research activities.
  • Strong expertise in assay development, virology, cell biology, and molecular biology techniques, e.g. viral stock preparation, titration, and replication assays; in vitro resistance selection; (RT)-PCR, (RT)qPCR; Sanger sequencing and NGS; molecular cloning and mutagenesis; data analysis and visualization; etc.
  • Must be comfortable working in a BSL2 setting with potentially infectious agents
  • Demonstrated expertise in ensuring good laboratory practices and BSL2 standards
  • Ability to present experimental rationale and data to other scientists
  • Motivated, and proactive molecular virologist and/or cell biologist with desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, GraphPad Prism, molecular cloning programs, and scientific informatics tools for data input, analysis, and management

Pay Range: $87,000 - $91,260 annualized


The stated pay range for this position reflects the San Francisco Bay Area job market. Assembly Bio establishes pay ranges based on geographic work locations. Additional factors such as academic credentials and relevant experience will influence the actual salary offered.

About Assembly Bio

Assembly Bio (NASDAQ: ASMB) is an ambitious biopharmaceutical company with cutting-edge therapeutic candidates capable of improving the lives of millions living with devastating viral and liver diseases. We have multiple ongoing clinical programs focused on the development of novel treatments for herpesviruses, hepatitis delta virus (HDV), cholestatic liver diseases and hepatitis B virus (HBV). Further, our research organization is dedicated to the discovery of new therapies to change the treatment paradigm for individuals living with serious viral and liver diseases.

We pride ourselves on creating a culture and work environment that is scientifically driven, ambitious, and collaborative. We encourage diversity of thought that leads to great innovation and are looking to add great people to our dynamic team who are driven to transform the lives of patients. We set our sights high-and pursue our goals with determination. Our unique organization stands ready to welcome talented, motivated individuals, who share our ambitions.

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to diversity and inclusion and will

not tolerate discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.


Information for Recruitment Agencies

Assembly Bio does not accept from recruiters/agencies any unsolicited resumes, or any candidate information including blinded resumes and will not be responsible for any fees related to resumes or candidate information that is unsolicited. Please do not contact hiring managers or Assembly Bio employees directly with any information related to a resume or a candidate. We handle all recruiting through our internal Human Resources team, and we will reach out to you directly should we wish to engage in a search. Your willingness to comply with this will significantly impact any decision we may make about doing business with you.