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Mycology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vylor, Inc.

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Serve as a scientific lead for mycology-focused plant pathology research, including fungal pathogen biology, host-pathogen interactions, assay development, and assay interpretation.Develop, validate ...

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mycology information

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$47K

$93.7K

$145K

How much do mycology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for mycology in the United States is $93,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mycology?

Mycology is the scientific study of fungi, including their genetic and biochemical properties, their taxonomy, and their use to humans as a source for medicine, food, and in biotechnology. Mycologists also study the roles of fungi in the environment, such as their importance in decomposing organic matter and forming symbiotic relationships with plants. The field covers a wide variety of organisms, from mushrooms and molds to yeasts. Mycology has applications in agriculture, medicine, ecology, and industry.

How to get a job in mycology?

To get a job in mycology, you need an education in biology through a bachelor’s degree or higher. Studies and hands-on experience in environmental science, botany, ecology, chemistry, conservation, or another life science can satisfy employers’ requirements for entry-level mycology roles, such as lab assistant or research assistant jobs. Minimum qualifications for mycologist and research mycology roles include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in mycology, ecology, fermentation, forest pathology, or biology. Experience working with and maintaining laboratory equipment, familiarity with common fungi and mycology, and physical stamina for fieldwork are necessary skills in both entry-level and higher-level mycology roles.

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

To thrive as a Mycologist, you need a background in biology or microbiology with specialized knowledge in fungal taxonomy, ecology, and laboratory research, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, molecular analysis techniques (such as PCR and DNA sequencing), and data analysis software is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for conducting research and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for accurately identifying fungi, advancing scientific understanding, and addressing real-world challenges like agriculture, medicine, and environmental sustainability.

What are some common challenges mycologists face when conducting field research, and how can they be addressed?

Mycologists often encounter challenges such as identifying fungi in diverse and sometimes remote environments, dealing with variable weather conditions, and ensuring accurate specimen collection and preservation. To address these, mycologists typically use detailed field guides, GPS systems for location tracking, and specialized collection kits to maintain specimen integrity. Collaborating with local researchers and following standardized protocols also help ensure reliable data and successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Mycology vs Microbiology?

AspectMycologyMicrobiology
Required CredentialsMycology degrees or certifications, mycological research experienceMicrobiology degrees, microbiology lab certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, fieldwork in fungi habitatsHospitals, labs, research facilities, environmental testing
Industry UsageFungal research, medical mycology, agricultureMedical, environmental, industrial microbiology

Mycology focuses specifically on fungi, including mushrooms and molds, often involving research, medical diagnosis, and agriculture. Microbiology covers a broader range of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi, with applications across healthcare, industry, and environmental sectors. While both fields require similar scientific credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

How much money do mycologists make?

Mycologists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and employment sector. On average, they earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with those in research or academia potentially earning higher salaries with advanced degrees and specialized skills in fungal identification and laboratory techniques.

What careers involve mycology?

Careers involving mycology include roles such as mycologist, research scientist, and laboratory technician, often working in academic, government, or private sector settings. These jobs typically require knowledge of fungi identification, laboratory skills, and sometimes advanced degrees in biology or related fields.
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mycology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mycology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,656 per year, or $45 per hour.

Lab Technician- Mycology

Chester, PA

Lighthouse Lab Services
Health Care and Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Lighthouse Lab Servicesexternal

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mycology / Microbiology Lab Technician

Location: Chester County, PA
Job Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (40 hours/week, 1-hour lunch)
Pay: $26–$29/hour

Job Summary

Lighthouse Lab Services is partnering with a global organization in the food manufacturing industry that is expanding its research and development capabilities in the mushroom industry. Following the acquisition of a company specializing in mushroom strain identification and genetic adaptation, the organization is growing its laboratory team to support mushroom production, research, and quality initiatives.

We are seeking a scientifically driven Mycology/Microbiology Lab Technician with a background in biology, microbiology, plant science, soil science, or a related field. This individual will support laboratory testing and research by collecting and preparing samples, performing microscopic analysis, evaluating samples for bacterial contamination, documenting findings, and communicating data to the broader scientific and production teams.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in applying laboratory science to mycology, microbiology, mushroom production, genetics, and agricultural research.

Responsibilities

  • Collect, prepare, and process mushroom, plant, soil, and other biological samples for laboratory analysis
  • Examine samples using microscopy and identify microorganisms or other relevant characteristics
  • Perform microbiological and quality testing to assess contamination and sample quality
  • Support research involving mushroom strains, genetic adaptation, production, and development
  • Accurately document laboratory results, observations, and experimental data
  • Review and interpret laboratory findings and communicate results to scientific, research, and production teams
  • Assist with maintaining laboratory procedures, equipment, supplies, and a clean working environment
  • Follow established laboratory safety, quality, and testing procedures
  • Contribute to ongoing R&D initiatives and help expand the organization's laboratory capabilities
  • Work collaboratively with scientists and other members of the organization to support research and production goals

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Plant Science, Soil Science, or a related scientific field
  • Laboratory experience in microbiology, mycology, quality testing, environmental testing, agricultural science, or a related area preferred
  • Experience with microscopy and biological sample analysis
  • Ability to accurately document, interpret, and communicate laboratory data
  • Strong scientific curiosity and an interest in research and experimentation
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and analytical skills
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a broader scientific team
  • Previous experience in a quality or testing-focused laboratory environment is a plus

Compensation & Benefits

  • $26–$29/hour
  • Monday–Friday schedule with consistent daytime hours
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match up to 5%
  • Annual performance-based salary increase
  • Fitness/wellness program
  • $1,000 perfect attendance bonus
  • Opportunity to grow within a global organization at the intersection of food science, mycology, microbiology, genetics, and R&D

About Us:

At Lighthouse Lab Services, we offer solutions to help start, grow, and run clinical laboratories. Our recruiting team has over 21 years of proven success placing job seekers in positions ranging from entry-level Medical Technologists to seasoned Laboratory Directors. We recruit nationwide, for permanent and travel positions with clients ranging from small hospitals to large reference laboratories.

It is the policy of Lighthouse Lab Services to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Lighthouse Lab Services will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Lighthouse Lab Services | 844-334-1658 | lighthouselabservices.com

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