Also called: BSL-4 Research Scientist, Biothreat Researcher
Researches dangerous pathogens to build defenses against pandemics and bioterrorism.
Suits up in a positive-pressure "space suit" in a BSL-4 lab to test a new drug against Ebola, and develops fast tests that detect biothreats.
Estimate; industry pays more than universities.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Doctorate (PhD), about 10 years after high school. PhD in biology or a related field, often plus a postdoc.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Microbiology, Immunology.
Growing faster than average. Tracks BLS life scientists (medical scientists and biochemists grow faster than average).
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI helps design tests and drugs; BSL-4 lab work, security clearance and national-defense trust stay human.
Classes: AP Biology, AP Chemistry, Statistics.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1042.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.