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Virology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Moderna, Inc.

Research Associate, ID Virology

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$63K - $100K/yr

Culture and maintain diverse mammalian cell lines and primary cells to support virology assays * Execute virological assays, including virus neutralization, infectivity assays, and virus propagation ...

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How much do virology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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:
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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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,305 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Research Scientist I - Virology with Security Clearance

Research Scientist I - Virology with Security Clearance

Chenega Corporation

Fort Detrick, MD

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Summary Come join a company that strives for Extraordinary People and Exceptional Performance ! Chenega Professional & Technical Services, a Chenega Professional Services' company, is looking for a Research Scientist I - Virology to support the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID). The Research Scientist I - Virology provides advanced scientific and technical support to virology research programs focused on viral pathogenesis and evaluation of medical countermeasures, including vaccines, antibody-based therapeutics, and antiviral drugs.

This role supports in vivo and in vitro studies, develops and applies advanced immunological and molecular biology assays, and operates in high-containment laboratory environments (BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4). Our company offers employees the opportunity to join a team where there is a robust employee benefits program, management engagement, quality leadership, an atmosphere of teamwork, recognition for performance, and promotion opportunities. We actively strive to channel our highly engaged employee's knowledge, critical thinking, innovative solutions for our clients.

Responsibilities * Serve as a mentor in BSL-3 and BSL-4 laboratory environments. * Coordinate and collaborate with scientists within the Division and Institute on in vivo and in vitro studies evaluating medical countermeasures against infectious diseases. * Support approximately ten (10) small animal studies across BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 laboratories, including autonomous execution of downstream analyses.

* Perform assessments of viral replication using plaque assays and RT-qPCR; conduct transcriptomic analyses (spatial, single-cell, and/or bulk); evaluate blood chemistry; and measure viral antigens, antiviral antibodies, cytokines, and chemokines using Luminex and ELISA platforms. * Design, implement, and maintain in vitro cell culture systems, including single-cell cultures and micro physiological systems such as organoids and organs-on-a-chip. * Plan, manage, and execute complex in vitro studies to evaluate viral pathogenesis, replication, and medical countermeasure efficacy; review, organize, analyze, and report study data to the Principal Investigator (PI).

* Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, qRT-PCR, cloning, transformations, fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH), flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunofluorescence assays (IFAs), high-content imaging, plaque assays, PRNTs, and related methodologies. * Conduct routine and advanced cell culture activities, including cryopreservation, thawing of cell lines, transfection, protein and antibody purification, and viral stock production and characterization. * Present protocols and research data at weekly virology meetings.

* Assess, manage, and maintain laboratory supplies in BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 laboratories, including ordering through GFEBS and/or DMLSS systems. * Perform technical literature reviews and assist in the preparation of proposals, technical reports, and peer-reviewed manuscripts; may present work at scientific meetings requiring CONUS or OCONUS travel. * Ensure accountability, management, safeguarding, and storage of BSAT, animal tissue samples, and working stock samples, maintaining required records for FSAP-registered Principal Investigators.

* Assist with annual equipment inventory management in BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 laboratories. * Provide a monthly PI Technical Report to the TPOC no later than the last working day of each month. * Perform other duties as assigned in support of virology research operations Qualifications * Master's degree in biomedical science, microbiology, virology, or a related scientific discipline.

* Minimum of five (5) years of post-degree laboratory experience in virology or related biomedical research. * Demonstrated experience with immunological assays, including Luminex, ELISA, flow cytometry, and ELISPOT. * Demonstrated experience designing, developing, and using micro physiological systems for viral research.

* Ability to work in BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 laboratory environments. * Eligibility for and ability to maintain BPRP and CS-PRP enrollment in accordance with contract requirements and applicable regulations. * Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications: * Experience supporting antiviral vaccine and therapeutic development programs. * Experience with transcriptomic analyses (single-cell, spatial, or bulk). * Experience presenting scientific data at professional or scientific meetings.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: * Strong knowledge of virology, viral pathogenesis, and medical countermeasure evaluation. * Proficiency in advanced molecular biology, immunology, and cell culture techniques. * Ability to independently analyze complex scientific data and clearly communicate results.

* Strong collaboration and communication skills within multidisciplinary research teams. * Ability to comply with strict biosafety, security, and regulatory requirements. Teleworking Details No telework, inclement weather telework only.

Estimated Salary/Wage USD $75,000.00/Yr. Up to USD $90,000.00/Yr.

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