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Virology Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Researcher 2-MIB

Memphis, TN · On-site

$3.9K - $4.9K/mo

Bachelor's Degree in Molecular Virology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related field. (Master's Degree preferred.) (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED) EXPERIENCE: Four (4) years of related research or laboratory ...

Researcher 2-MIB

Memphis, TN · On-site

$3.9K - $4.9K/mo

Bachelor's Degree in Molecular Virology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related field. (Master's Degree preferred.) (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED) EXPERIENCE: Four (4) years of related research or laboratory ...

Research Assistant II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

At the intersection of immunology and virology, our work leverages computational advances to better understand antibody-antigen interactions, design immunogens, and optimize antibodies for clinical ...

Research Assistant II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

At the intersection of immunology and virology, our work leverages computational advances to better understand antibody-antigen interactions, design immunogens, and optimize antibodies for clinical ...

... microbiology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, or biomedical engineering ★ Must be a U.S. citizen to serve as Active Duty ★ Must have a permanent U.S ...

... microbiology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, or biomedical engineering ★ Must be a U.S. citizen to serve as Active Duty ★ Must have a permanent U.S ...

... microbiology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, or biomedical engineering ★ Must be a U.S. citizen to serve as Active Duty ★ Must have a permanent U.S ...

... microbiology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, or biomedical engineering ★ Must be a U.S. citizen to serve as Active Duty ★ Must have a permanent U.S ...

... microbiology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, or biomedical engineering ★ Must be a U.S. citizen to serve as Active Duty ★ Must have a permanent U.S ...

... microbiology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, immunology, molecular biology, or biomedical engineering ★ Must be a U.S. citizen to serve as Active Duty ★ Must have a permanent U.S ...

Microbiology Tutor

Nashville, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of bacterial cell structure, microbial metabolism, genetics of microorganisms, virology, mycology, parasitology, immunology, epidemiology, antimicrobial agents, and laboratory ...

Microbiology Tutor

Chattanooga, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of bacterial cell structure, microbial metabolism, genetics of microorganisms, virology, mycology, parasitology, immunology, epidemiology, antimicrobial agents, and laboratory ...

Microbiology Tutor

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of bacterial cell structure, microbial metabolism, genetics of microorganisms, virology, mycology, parasitology, immunology, epidemiology, antimicrobial agents, and laboratory ...

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Virology information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do virology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for virology in Tennessee is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $22.45 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Virology jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Virology job openings:

Infographic showing various Virology job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,750 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Medical Lab Scientist 2 PRN- Virology

Vanderbilt Health

Nashville, TN • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Vanderbilt University Medical Center rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 253 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Discover Vanderbilt University Medical Center: Located in Nashville, Tennessee, and operating at a global crossroads of teaching, discovery, and patient care, VUMC is a community of individuals who come to work each day with the simple aim of changing the world. It is a place where your expertise will be valued, your knowledge expanded, and your abilities challenged. Vanderbilt Health is committed to an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and where your uniqueness is sought and celebrated. It is a place where employees know they are part of something that is bigger than themselves, take exceptional pride in their work and never settle for what was good enough yesterday. Vanderbilt's mission is to advance health and wellness through preeminent programs in patient care, education, and research.
Organization:
Virology Laboratory
Job Summary:
Performs routine clinical pathology testing and instrument management of laboratory services under guidance. Responsible to accurately record results and assure timely delivery of results. Has the authority, responsibility and accountability for the accurate performance of laboratory test methodologies. These tests are used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients and the evaluation of the patient's response to treatment. Applies clinical knowledge to achieve accurate clinical test results which leads to quality patient care outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provides patient-focused care in a clinical setting through the accurate performance of routine and complex tests through the pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic stages.
• Performs qualitative and quantitative analytical procedures, including reagent preparation and appropriate quality control, according to required protocols, with precision and accuracy in a timely and efficient manner.
• Demonstrates knowledge of techniques, principles, and instruments and their interrelationships as well as physiological conditions affecting test results.
• The responsibilities listed are a general overview of the position and additional duties may be assigned.
Technical Capabilities:
• Quality Assurance (Novice): Has provided continuous analysis and evaluation of assignment work processes, constantly striving for improvement in the way tasks and activities are accomplished by questioning their value to the process and contributing creative solutions. Has participated in the process of establishing, communicating and monitoring standards for quality and excellence. Demonstrates the ability to actually work on and improve a current business process, product or service.
• Data Analysis (Novice): Possesses sufficient fundamental proficiency to successfully demonstrate data analysis in practical data analysis applications of moderate difficulty. Navigates within established technology environments to locate, validate, extract, and format data for data analysis. Able to modify and run queries and standard reports from data tools and provide to users. Can identify data values and data sources. Is familiar with data modeling. Is able to interview business customers to elicit data requirements and understand the relationships between data items.
• Equipment Maintenance (Novice): Possesses sufficient fundamental proficiency to successfully demonstrate the ability to maintain equipment, products, or systems in practical applications of moderate difficulty. Assures that parts inventory is sufficient.
• Diagnostic Testing (Novice): Demonstrates proficiency of diagnostic testing in practical applications. Possesses sufficient knowledge, training, and experience to be capable of successfully delivering results.
• Mentoring & Coaching (Novice): Constructively trains and mentors others by providing positive direction and feedback. Has provided constructive suggestions to improve a situation. Knows how to remove roadblocks to success and avoids judgments at all times. Makes a concerted effort to pass on experiences and job information that can be learned easily.
Allied health is among the fastest growing occupations in healthcare today. This area can be defined as credentialed professionals who perform supportive, diagnostic, and therapeutic health care services to promote health and prevent disease in a variety of settings.
These areas are crucial to Vanderbilt Health's reputation for excellence in these areas that has made us a major center for patient referrals from throughout the Mid-South.
Each year, people throughout Tennessee and the southeast choose Vanderbilt Health for their health care because of our leadership in medical science and our dedication to treating patients with dignity and compassion.
Core Accountabilities:
Organizational Impact: Executes job responsibilities with the understanding of how output would affect and impact other areas related to own job area/team with occasional guidance. Problem Solving/ Complexity of work: Analyzes moderately complex problems using technical experience and judgment. Breadth of Knowledge: Has expanded knowledge gained through experience within a professional area. Team Interaction: Provides informal guidance and support to team members.
Core Capabilities :
Supporting Colleagues:- Develops Self and Others: Invests time, energy, and enthusiasm in developing self/others to help improve performance e and gain knowledge in new areas.- Builds and Maintains Relationships: Maintains regular contact with key colleagues and stakeholders using formal and informal opportunities to expand and strengthen relationships.- Communicates Effectively: Recognizes group interactions and modifies one's own communication style to suit different situations and audiences. Delivering Excellent Services:- Serves Others with Compassion: Seeks to understand current and future needs of relevant stakeholders and customizes services to better address them.- Solves Complex Problems: Approaches problems from different angles; Identifies new possibilities to interpret opportunities and develop concrete solutions.- Offers Meaningful Advice and Support: Provides ongoing support and coaching in a constructive manner to increase employees' effectiveness. Ensuring High Quality: - Performs Excellent Work: Engages regularly in formal and informal dialogue about quality; directly addresses quality issues promptly.- Ensures Continuous Improvement: Applies various learning experiences by looking beyond symptoms to uncover underlying causes of problems and identifies ways to resolve them. - Fulfills Safety and Regulatory Requirements: Understands all aspects of providing a safe environment and performs routine safety checks to prevent safety hazards from occurring. Managing Resources Effectively: - Demonstrates Accountability: Demonstrates a sense of ownership, focusing on and driving critical issues to closure.- Stewards Organizational Resources: Applies understanding of the departmental work to effectively manage resources for a department/area.- Makes Data Driven Decisions: Demonstrates strong understanding of the information or data to identify and elevate opportunities. Fostering Innovation:- Generates New Ideas: Proactively identifies new ideas/opportunities from multiple sources or methods to improve processes beyond conventional approaches.- Applies Technology: Demonstrates an enthusiasm for learning new technologies, tools, and procedures to address short-term challenges.- Adapts to Change: Views difficult situations and/or problems as opportunities for improvement; actively embraces change instead of emphasizing negative elements.
Position Qualifications:
Responsibilities:
Certifications:
LIC-Medical Laboratory Act - Tennessee, Medical Laboratory Scientist - American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), Medical Technologist - American Medical Technologists (AMT)
Work Experience:
Relevant Work Experience
Experience Level :
1 year
Education:
Bachelor's (Required)
This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Vanderbilt Health, supported by a comprehensive benefits package which may include health, disability, retirement and/or wellness offerings to enhance your well-being and professional growth.
Vanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.

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