VIROLOGY Introduction Virology, a branch of medical sciences, deals with viruses and viral diseases. It includes the structure, classification and evolution of viruses and the ways to infect and exploit cells for virus reproduction at the molecular level. Nature of Work Virologists Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of viruses, Use and develop techniques to isolate and culture viruses. Perform chemical analyses of substances produced by viruses and studying their effects on organic matter. Mostly spend time in the laboratory Specializations Some specialize in a particular virus, or plant viruses or veterinary viruses or human viruses. Other areas of specialization include, Infectious Disease, Biological Warfare, HIV, Viral Vectors & Gene Therapy, Viral Oncology and Immunology, Molecular Biology and Pathology, Retroviruses and Tumor Suppressing Viruses. Some virologists study the composition and function of newly discovered antiviral compounds. Education Admission Requirements BS MS/ M.Phill (if BS/M.Sc.) Ph.D. 4 Years 2 Years 3-5 Years FSc. Pre-medical Equivalence if other than FSc (A’Level etc...) Entry Test for BS Qualities Required Job Opportunities A solid background in life science or biochemistry is very important Scientific Aptitude Accuracy and attention to detail is essential. Excellent record-keeping is critical. Hospitals Medical research companies Medical colleges Pharmaceutical companies, and Cancer treatment centers A high proportion of graduates proceeds to PhD study, or, if medically qualified, to clinical practice or research Views: 8498 Related Careers Biochemistry Bioinformatics Biological Emerging Sciences Biology Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Botany Freshwater Biology and Fishries Immunology Marine Biology Microbiology Molecular Biology Physiology Virology Virology Zoology view All Careers