Virologist Career
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Virologist Job Description
A virologist is a professional who studies the growth, development, structure and characteristics of different viruses. He isolates and makes cultures of significant viruses in a standard inhibitory medium, controlling certain factors, like, aeration, moisture, temperature, and nutrition.
He will identify different viruses via microscopic examination of the morphological, physical and cultural traits. He also observes the action of a particular virus up on living tissues of plants and animals.
A virologist also makes chemical analyses of various substances, like acids, enzymes, and alcohol released by viruses on organic matter.
Virologist Skills/Duties
A virologist has to study the growth and development of viruses and how they interrelate with; and have an impact on human beings, plants, animals and even dead organic matter.
Virologists are employed by medical schools, hospitals, laboratory centers, medical research companies, governmental agencies, pharmaceutical companies, laboratory testing companies, or cancer treatment or research companies, depending upon the specialization.
Virologist Education and Training
Virology is a subdivision of Biology, so, you need an Under-graduate Degree in Biology. You will need grade-12 University level Biology, Physics and Chemistry.
A graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology is qualified to work at various research and technical positions, including veterinary microbiologist, research assistant and food microbiologist. Laboratory and clinical experience is decidedly important for a virologist, and most virologists get this experience in graduate school.
With a Master of Science in Microbiology, you can hunt for positions as a supervisor or laboratory manager, research associate or instructor on the community college level.
A Doctoral Degree, Ph.D. in Microbiology is necessary for the uppermost posts in this field, such as a professor at a college / university, researcher, or a research director.
There are a host of opportunities available. You may reflect on what aspect of virology you are interested in (i.e. research, public health or medical doctor), since, each aspect needs different education and training.
Virologist Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job prospect for virologists is projected to increase by 11 % between 2006 and 2016. The employment opportunity for virologists looks good, more so, with the appearance of new viruses everyday and the process of constant research.
Virologists are employed in just about every industry; food, health, agriculture, control, pollution, bio-technology, and pharmaceuticals. They are also engaged in government agencies and laboratories, such as, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institutes of Health, water treatment facilities, and hospitals. Whats more, a virologist has an option of having a career in research and education as well.
Virologist Salary
The mean annual salary for a virologist is about $53,000. The salary greatly depends on the education and training, experience, and where they are employed.
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