Virologist
A scientist that focuses on the study and investigation of viral illnesses is known as a virologist. Additionally, they investigate how viruses grow and develop as well as how people, animals, and plants are affected.
An virologist is what?
Virologists frequently perform the following duties:
- organizes, carries out, and controls the investigation of microorganisms
- oversees a group of scientists and researchers working in laboratories.
- teaches the study team how to utilize the right equipment and follow safety precautions
- conveys research findings to coworkers, administrators, and health organizations while writing technical papers and reports.
- diagnoses viral illnesses and offers their professional recommendation for a course of treatment
An Ordinary Day
A virologist researches viruses that affect individuals, groups of individuals, plants, animals, and entire communities in varied contexts. For the most part, virologists divide their time between research and instruction.
To work with people who are infected with viruses, some researchers might do clinical research in the medical industry. They deal with many different problems, including viral pathology, viral oncology, virotherapy, viral replication, and newly emerging viruses.
Regular Work Hours
The position is full-time and requires a 40-hour work week. They spend the bulk of their time in labs, research offices, hospitals, and healthcare institutions.
Future Job Growth
Sadly, there has been a rise of contagious viruses along with the increase in global population. People who want to assist in treating these infections in communities will be in high demand.
Common Employers
Typically, these researchers work for academic institutions, governmental organizations, healthcare providers including hospitals or clinics, as well as pharmaceutical firms.
Getting Started as a Virologist
A PhD is necessary to work as a virologist. A solid science foundation is necessary for virology, hence an undergraduate degree in biology, chemistry, or a closely related subject is required.
Biology, cell biology, biochemistry, microbiology, physics, mathematics, and the social sciences should all be included in the coursework.
Those who earn their Bachelor of Science degrees can work as lab technicians in order to gain the essential laboratory experience to advance in their careers.
They can then apply to graduate school to get a Master of Science degree after getting the necessary laboratory experience.
A person with a Master of Science degree can then proceed to supervisor or manager positions or opportunities as a teaching assistant.
Programs in immunology, virology, biology, bacterium structure, genetics, and cancer biology are available to those pursuing a doctorate. During this year of study, lab work and dissertations will also be necessary.
Additionally, students must pass the requisite qualifying tests and finish their residencies. To lead research centers and teach at universities or colleges, you need a PhD.
Virologist Pay Information
The information below will help you learn more about this profession. The editorial material and recommendations on this page are based on our research, while the income and growth information is based on newly released Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Low Range of National Annual Salary: $48,980; Average: $76,230; High Range: $125,200
Nationwide minimum wage
- Low Range $24 per hour Average $37 per hour High Range $60 per hour
How does the pay for virologists compare to that of other professions nationwide? According to the most recent data on employment across the country, virologists can earn an average yearly salary of $76,230, or $37 per hour.
When just starting out or depending on the state you live in, they may make as little as $48,980, or $24 per hour.
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