Virology is the study of viruses, which are microscopic infectious agents that can infect all types of organisms, including animals, plants, and bacteria. Viruses are composed of genetic material (either DNA or RNA) contained within a protein coat, and they rely on host cells to reproduce and spread. Research in virology encompasses a wide range of topics, including understanding the structure and function of viruses, how they infect cells, mechanisms of viral replication and pathogenesis, developing antiviral drugs and vaccines, and studying the interactions between viruses and the immune system. Virology research is important for understanding and combating viral diseases, such as influenza, HIV, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19, as well as for studying viruses in the environment and their potential impacts on public health and agriculture.