How much does a Virologist, researcher make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Virologist, researcher

Virologist, researcher

49 100 kr

Cell and molecular biologists etc.

41 600 - 52 100 kr / month

Women earn 89% of what men do.

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Salary progression Virologist, researcher

Average salary 49 100 kr
Males 52 100 kr
Females 46 400 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 17 Vacant jobs ->

What does a virologist, researcher do? – Tasks and work environment

A virologist, researcher studies viruses, their properties, spread, and impact on humans, animals, and the environment. Tasks include laboratory work, sample analysis, development of diagnostic methods, and research on treatments and vaccines. Many virologists also analyze and interpret data, write scientific articles, and collaborate with national and international research teams. The work environment is often lab-based and may require strict safety procedures, especially when handling infectious agents. Researchers in virology are typically employed at universities, research institutes, government agencies, or within the pharmaceutical industry.

Salary development over time

The salary development for virologists, researchers has been positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,700 SEK, then increased to 46 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 100 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 9.8% during the period. The trend indicates continued strong demand for specialist skills in virology, driven by increased focus on infectious diseases and advancements in biotechnology. The salary increase can also be explained by more extensive research projects and funding, which positively impacts salary levels. Gender differences remain, with female virologists earning on average 89% of what male colleagues earn.

Virologist, researcher salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 49 100 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
  • Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (male, unspecified education level, various sectors)
  • Hourly wage: 295 SEK
  • Women: 46 400 SEK/month (89% of men's salary, highest salary 50,300 SEK)
  • Men: 52,100 SEK/month (lowest salary 42,900 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Not specified

Education and qualifications

To work as a virologist, researcher, a long academic education in biology, medicine, or related fields is usually required, often with specialization in virology at an advanced level. The research career is built on a combination of theoretical studies, laboratory experience, and scientific methodology. A doctoral degree is often necessary to work independently in research and development.

  • Formal education: Master's or doctoral degree (PhD) in biology, medicine, or biomedical sciences
  • Specialized courses: Virology, molecular biology, immunology
  • Internships/Training: Laboratory internships during studies and postdoctoral research
  • Prerequisites: Basic education in natural sciences, often a bachelor's degree as a foundation
  • Tips: Engagement in research projects and international collaborations provide advantages

Many virologists work in multidisciplinary teams, where collaboration with immunologists, epidemiologists, and bioinformaticians is crucial for understanding and combating virus outbreaks globally. The ability to communicate research results to colleagues and the public is therefore an important part of the role.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, employment as a virologist, researcher often includes benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, opportunities for professional development, and conference travel. Flexible working hours and remote work options may be available, especially within academic institutions. In some cases, insurance and support for international research exchanges are also offered.

Competition and challenges

Competition for research positions in virology is intense, especially for permanent positions at universities and research institutes. Funding for research projects is often challenging and requires skill in applying for grants. Rapid technological development demands continuous skill upgrading and adaptability. The job market is also affected by global events like pandemics, which can lead to temporary spikes in demand. At the same time, the number of available positions in the field is relatively limited, with 143 current job openings.

Tips for aspiring virologists, researchers

To succeed as a virologist, researcher, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills and a genuine interest in biological processes. Curiosity and perseverance help in long-term research projects and when encountering unexpected results. Precision is crucial in laboratory work and data collection, while teamwork facilitates work in interdisciplinary teams. It is also important to communicate results clearly, both in writing and orally. Engagement in international networks and conferences is recommended to stay updated and expand your contacts. Finally, the ability to work independently and take initiative is key to advancing research.

Key facts about Virologist, researcher

  • Education level: Usually doctoral degree in biology, medicine, or biomedical sciences
  • Work environment: Lab-based, often at universities or research institutes
  • Work form: Full-time, often project- and grant-based
  • Demand: 143 job openings in the field according to latest statistics
  • Special skills: Laboratory techniques and data analysis skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a virologist, researcher can advance to project manager, research group leader, or specialist within their research area. Opportunities also exist to work internationally or within the pharmaceutical industry, government agencies, and biotech companies. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that demand varies and no specific assessment exists for virologists due to limited data. However, technological developments and global health threats can quickly impact the job market, potentially increasing demand for specialized virology skills when needed. For those wishing to broaden their expertise, related professions such as immunologist, microbiologist, or epidemiologist are viable alternatives.

Frequently asked questions about Virologist, researcher

  • What does a virologist, researcher earn?
    - A virologist, researcher has an average salary of 49 100 SEK per month.
  • How to become a virologist, researcher?
    - The typical path is a master's degree followed by a doctoral degree in biology, medicine, or biomedical sciences, then research training and internships.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 89% of men's salaries in the profession.
  • Which workplaces hire virologists?
    - Universities, research institutes, government agencies, and the pharmaceutical industry are common workplaces.
  • What are the future prospects for virologists?
    - The outlook is uncertain but influenced by global health threats and technological development. Currently, there are 143 job openings in the field.
  • How high can the salary for a virologist, researcher become?
    - The highest reported salary is 52,100 SEK per month for men and 50,300 SEK for women.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-08 13:16:08

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Virologist, researcher is 52100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 50300 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Virologist, researcher is 41600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Public sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 42900 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 40700 kr 41000 kr
35-44 100% 45800 kr 45900 kr
45-54 98% 49900 kr 50300 kr
Snitt 89% 48900 kr 49100 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Virologist, researcher has the SSYK code 2131, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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