What Is a Virologist? Types, Tools, and Salaries

Key Takeaways

• The study of virology is crucial for understanding viruses and protecting global health, as viruses pose a significant threat worldwide.
• Virologists employ cutting-edge instruments across various fields to study viruses and develop cures.
• Since the COVID-19 pandemic, job opportunities in research, innovation, and healthcare have expanded, with an increasing demand for virologists.
• Advances in viral genomics and antiviral drug development offer promising and dynamic career paths in virology.

Virology is the branch of science that studies viruses — tiny infectious agents that can lead to serious illnesses in humans, animals, and plants. In light of recent global outbreaks such as COVID-19, understanding viruses has become more important than ever. 

Scientists who investigate how viruses operate and spread, as well as how to prevent or treat the illnesses they cause, are known as virologists. In this guide, we’ll discuss what virologists do, the different types of virologists, the tools they use, and how much they earn.

What Is a Virologist?

Virologists are specialists who study viruses – microscopic agents capable of infecting bacteria, plants, animals, and humans. They focus on understanding how viruses are formed, how they mutate and evolve, and how they spread and cause diseases. 

Virologists play a vital role in protecting public health. They help identify new viruses, develop vaccines and treatments, and implement strategies to control the spread of infections. Their work is essential in the global effort to combat viral diseases and safeguard communities. 

What Does a Virologist Do?

Virologists spend much of their time researching how viruses function and how they impact living organisms. They conduct laboratory experiments, analyze samples, and investigate how viruses spread and interact with host cells. Their research also contributes to the development of antiviral drugs and vaccines. Virologists often publish their findings in scholarly journals to share knowledge with the scientific community. 

They work in a range of settings, such as hospitals, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and universities. A prominent example of virologists’ contributions is their crucial involvement in the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines, which helped protect millions of people all around the world.

Types of Virologists

Virologists may specialize in different areas depending on the type of viruses they study or the focus of their research. Here are some of the main types:

• Medical Virologists: Study viruses that cause disease in humans. They contribute to advancing the detection, management, and prevention of illnesses such as influenza, HIV, and COVID-19. They’re typically employed in hospitals, public health agencies, and research laboratories.
• Veterinary Virologists: Focus on viruses that infect animals, such as rabies or avian flu. They work in veterinary clinics, farms, or animal health research facilities to help control outbreaks in domestic or wild animal populations.
• Plant Virologists: Investigate viruses that damage crops and plants. Their work helps protect agricultural productivity and food security. They often collaborate with farmers, agricultural organizations, and plant research labs. 
• Ecological/Evolutionary Virologists: Study how viruses evolve and spread in natural environments. Their work helps track emerging viruses and understand their impact on ecosystems. They’re commonly found in academic or environmental research institutions. 
• Molecular Virologists: Examine viruses at the molecular and genetic levels, focusing on how they replicate and interact with host cells. Their research supports the development of new medical treatments and vaccines. They typically work in high-tech laboratories. 
• Industrial Virologists: Apply virology in commercial settings, such as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. They may be involved in vaccine manufacturing, gene therapy, or using viruses for beneficial purposes like drug delivery. 

Tools & Techniques Used by Virologists

Virologists rely on a variety of specialized tools and techniques to safely study viruses and understand how they function. These tools allow them to detect, grow, observe, and analyze viruses in controlled laboratory settings.

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machines: Detect and quantify tiny amounts of viral genetic material (DNA or RNA). This technique is crucial for diagnosing infections and monitoring the spread of viruses.
• Electron microscopy (EM): Used to visualize viruses in high detail since they’re too small to be seen with standard microscopes. This allows scientists to study viral structures at the molecular level.
• Cell culture techniques: Used to grow viruses in lab dishes so researchers can observe how they infect host cells. This helps in understanding the virus’s life cycle and testing treatments.
• Molecular biology methods: Techniques such as DNA and RNA sequencing enable researchers to study how viruses replicate, mutate, and evolve. These methods provide insight into viral behavior and support the development of antiviral therapies.
• Bioinformatics and computational tools: Essential for analyzing large sets of genetic data, tracking virus transmission patterns, and studying mutations. These digital techniques support real-time monitoring during outbreaks.
• Biosafety levels (BSL-1 to BSL-4): Because some viruses pose significant health risks, virologists work in laboratories classified by biosafety levels, ranging from BSL-1 (lowest risk) to BSL-4 (highest risk), depending on the danger posed by the virus being studied. Strict safety protocols are followed to protect researchers and prevent accidental exposure.

How to Become a Virologist

Virologists play a vital role in global health by helping to understand, prevent, and treat viral diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored virology’s significance, increasing the demand for experts who can address current and emerging viral threats.

If you’re considering a career in virology, it’s important to understand the educational path, certifications, and skills required to succeed. 

Educational requirements

The journey to becoming a virologist usually begins with a Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field. This foundational education introduces key concepts in life sciences and laboratory techniques.

To gain advanced expertise and research experience, many aspiring virologists pursue a Master’s degree or PhD in virology, microbiology, or molecular biology. These graduate programs provide in-depth knowledge and the opportunity to conduct original research in the field.

For those interested in clinical virology or patient care, going to medical school is a common path. Medical school is especially important for virologists involved in diagnosing and treating viral infections or leading clinical research.

If you’re exploring educational options, AUA offers programs designed to help you build the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field of virology and other medical careers.

Licenses and certifications

The need for licensing or certification depends on the virologist’s area of specialization.

Clinical and medical virologists often require certification, especially if they work in hospitals or diagnostic laboratories. In the U.S., for example, obtaining Board Certification in Clinical Microbiology is strongly recommended for these roles.

Research-based virologists working in academic or private labs typically do not need a license, although credentials and experience are still highly valued.

Many professionals also pursue postdoctoral studies to deepen their expertise and prepare for leadership or high-level research positions. Ongoing training and certification help ensure virologists remain well-prepared and maintain high standards of safety and effectiveness.

Key skills for virologists

To be successful, virologists need a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills. These include: 

• Analytical thinking: Interpreting complex data and identifying patterns in virus behavior.
• Laboratory expertise: Using equipment like electron microscopes and PCR machines safely and accurately.
• Communication: Clearly presenting research findings through reports, presentations, or scientific publications. 
• Collaboration: Working closely with other scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals to solve problems. 
• Critical thinking: Evaluating evidence and making informed decisions during research. 
• Attention to detail: Avoiding mistakes and ensuring accuracy in data collection, analysis, and experiment execution.
• Problem-solving: Finding creative ways to overcome challenges during research and adapt to obstacles. 
• Adaptability: Responding to emerging viruses, evolving science, and changes in the healthcare system. 

Virologist Salary & Job Outlook

Virologists remain in steady demand, especially in areas like pandemic preparedness, public health, and biotechnology. The estimated total pay for a virologist in the United States is approximately $206,289 per year. This includes an average base salary of $152,896 and additional pay, such as bonuses or profit sharing, of around $53,393 annually. 

Salaries vary widely based on education, experience, location, and specialization. For instance, a Research Scientist earns an estimated total pay of $180,150 per year, while a Scientist IV has an estimated total pay of $163,086 per year. Advanced degrees, like a PhD or MD, years of experience, and expertise in specialized areas can significantly increase earning potential. 

The job outlook for virologists is strong, with continued emphasis on global health security, vaccine research, and rapid response to emerging viruses, ensuring that virologists will play a critical role for years to come. 

Emerging Fields in Virology

Virology is continuously evolving with new discoveries and technologies, shaping the way we study and combat viral diseases. As our understanding of viruses deepens, new areas of research are emerging, offering exciting career opportunities and innovations in the field.

• Viral Genomics: Explores the genetic makeup of viruses to understand how they evolve, spread, and cause diseases. It helps scientists track viral mutations, identify new variants, and predict potential outbreaks.
• Zoonotic Virus Research: Focuses on how zoonotic viruses – those that jump from animals to humans – are transmitted across species, helping scientists develop strategies to detect, monitor, and prevent future zoonotic outbreaks.
• Antiviral Drug Development: Discovering and testing new antiviral medications to treat viral infections. This is especially important for diseases that currently have no cure, such as HIV and Hepatitis C. 
• Synthetic Virology: Uses synthetic biology techniques to design and construct viruses in laboratory settings. It helps scientists understand viral structure and function and supports the development of vaccines, gene therapies, and novel antiviral strategies.
• Virus-Host Interactions: Investigates the mechanisms viruses use to infect cells, evade immune responses, and cause disease — insights that are essential for designing targeted treatments. 
• Immunotherapy: Utilizes the immune system by boosting natural immune responses or engineering immune cells to combat viruses more effectively, offering promising avenues for treating chronic and hard-to-treat viral diseases. 

As these fields expand, the demand for virologists with specialized expertise continues to grow. These emerging areas not only present exciting career opportunities in research, pharmaceuticals, and public health but also drive innovation in how we prevent and treat viral illnesses.

Conclusion

Virology is an important field that helps us understand and fight viral diseases, which are a major concern in global health. With the rise of innovative research areas like viral genomics, antiviral drug development, and immunotherapy, virologists are at the forefront of medical breakthroughs that save lives and prevent future pandemics.

Career opportunities in virology are diverse and growing, spanning research, clinical practice, biotechnology, and public health. If you’re interested in science, healthcare, and making a real difference in the world, a career in virology may be the perfect choice.

AUA offers the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed in this exciting and impactful field. Explore our programs and take the first step toward a rewarding career in virology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is virology a good major?

Yes, virology is a great major for students interested in science and global health, offering career opportunities in research, diagnostics, pharmaceutical development, and disease prevention.

What are some basics you should know before getting into virology?

A strong foundation in biology, microbiology, chemistry, and genetics is essential to understanding how viruses replicate, spread, and affect living organisms.

What are two examples of virology?

• Studying the way HIV attacks the immune system and developing treatments to manage the disease
• Analyzing the structure, transmission, and immune response of the COVID-19 virus to design effective vaccines