In the current scenario of COVID 19 pandemic, we are all desperately counting on an important category of people: Virologists!
Needless to say, they are the need of the hour at present.
So what exactly does a virologist do? We have already read that in previous session.
To reiterate, A virologist typically works in research or teaching, and many split their time between these two activities. A virology researcher works under a broad range of issues including emerging viruses, viral pathology, viral oncology, virotherapy, viral replication, virus-cell interactions, etc.
Researchers are employed by recognized laboratories/ universities, government agencies, or health organizations.
Some virologists also work as science writers or pursue additional training to work in pharmaceutical business or law. Virologists may work in industry research and develop new medications. Medical doctors whose focus is on virology may carry out clinical research or work with patients afflicted with viruses.
So how do you become a virologist?
Well, there are many institutes in India offering degree courses in Virology, which definitely opens the gate for many job opportunities across the globe.
M.Sc Virology:
This degree course gives a scope to study various topics like Vaccinology, Immunology, Biotechnology, the biology of infection and diagnostic virology. Varied areas are covered under this course such as viruses/virus-like agents, their structure, classification, evolution, mechanism of infection, causative diseases, isolation and culture techniques as well as their use in research and therapy.
The course is suitable for students interested in working in the biomedical field, and wishes to contribute to research by developing something new in this area. Students with B.Sc/B.tech or any equivalent degree in Life Sciences/Microbiology/Biochemistry/Zoology with minimum 50% marks are eligible to apply for this degree course. Some institutes/universities may additionally demand the students to clear an entrance examination for admission. Interested students are required to have skills like observation, communication, analysis, problem-solving, critical thinking, reasoning and, perseverance for pursuing this course.
Institutes offering M.Sc Virology degree course:
- Amity Institute of Virology & Immunology, Noida
- Manipal Institute of Virology, Karnataka
- Sri Venkateshwara University, Tirupati
- Savitri Bai Phule Pune University
Institutes offering PG Diploma in Clinical Virology and Immunology:
- National Institute of Virology, Pune, Maharashtra ( Min -2 years, Max – 3 years)
- Amity Institute of Virology & Immunology, Noida (1 year duration)
PhD in Virology:
PhD course in Virology enables students to learn how to conduct leading research in infection and immunity by undertaking a research project.
During the course, students gain practical laboratory experience in molecular virology, serology techniques, cell culture, and learn how to apply these in both basic science questions and to solve clinical problems. Students having a Postgraduate degree in any branch of Life Sciences/ Biological Sciences/ Biotechnology/ Microbiology/ Bioinformatics having at least 55% or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA) are eligible for the course. Admission to their program will be on the basis of the candidate’s performance in the entrance examination; followed by personal interview.
Interested candidates should also have a valid Junior Research Fellowship from CSIR/UGC-NET/SLET/GATE/ICMR/DBT-INSPIRE with a valid score if they wish to avail fellowship while pursuing a PhD. However, this is a must requirement for application to recognized institutes.
Some of the institutes where students may pursue their PhD Virology course:
- ICMR National Institute of Virology, Pune
- Manipal Institute of Virology (MIV), Karnataka
- Amity Institute of Virology and Immunology
- National Institute of Immunology
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
- Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly
Virology is a rapidly-expanding area with discovery of many new viruses. Drastic changes in climate, society habits, and medical practice allows newly emerging and re-emerging viral diseases to spread, like the dramatic outbreaks of zoonotic virus infections (COVID, Ebola, MERS, SARS, Nipah, etc.)
Thus, it is essential to remain apprised of research advances along with the regular coursework.