The role of the Scientific Advisory Board is to develop a strategy to promote the science of Viruses of microorganisms. The Trustees and Executive Officers use this strategy to create policies and practices for the Society for advancing Viruses of Microorganisms. The Board is also responsible for organizing the scientific content of the biannual Virus of Microbes (VoM) meetings.

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises 10-20 members nominated by the Trustees or the Executive Board. One of their members is elected as Chair and will also serve as a Trustee. The Chair will serve a two-year term and may serve no more than two consecutive terms.