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Cancer Biologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cell Biology Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes molecular-level reasoning and connects cell biology to cancer research, regenerative medicine, and immunology. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with cell biology ...

Cell Biology Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes molecular-level reasoning and connects cell biology to cancer research, regenerative medicine, and immunology. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with cell biology ...

The research strengths of the department include immunology and cancer biology. Any area of clinical expertise will be considered, although readily foreseeable niches include microbiology ...

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Cancer Biologist information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$84K

$129.6K

How much do cancer biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer biologist in Iowa is $83,974.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Cancer Biologist do?

A Cancer Biologist researches the causes, development, and potential treatments for cancer at the cellular and molecular levels. They conduct laboratory experiments, analyze patient samples, and collaborate with medical professionals to understand cancer progression. Their work helps identify new drug targets, improve therapies, and contribute to early detection methods. Many Cancer Biologists work in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies, focusing on both basic and applied research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cancer Biologist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cancer Biologist, you need a solid foundation in molecular and cellular biology, oncology, and laboratory research methods, typically supported by an advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in a life science field. Experience using laboratory techniques such as flow cytometry, CRISPR, and bioinformatics tools, along with familiarity with data analysis software and adherence to GLP standards, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary research teams are important soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for designing robust experiments, generating reliable results, and driving meaningful advances in cancer research.

What is the salary of a cancer biologist?

The average salary of a cancer biologist in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while those with advanced degrees and research experience can earn higher salaries, especially in research institutions or biotech companies.

Is cancer biology a good career?

Cancer biologists study the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer, often working in research laboratories or academic settings. The field offers opportunities for contributing to medical advances, but it typically requires advanced degrees and involves long hours and competitive funding environments.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Cancer biologists and other specialized biology roles such as biomedical directors, research scientists, and clinical trial managers often earn over $100,000 annually, especially with advanced degrees and experience. Positions in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and research institutions tend to offer higher salaries, particularly for those with expertise in molecular techniques, data analysis, and grant writing.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Cancer Biologist?

Cancer Biologists typically spend their days designing and conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing experimental data, and documenting findings in detailed reports. They often collaborate with other scientists, such as geneticists and chemists, as well as participate in lab meetings and present their research to broader teams. Responsibilities may also include maintaining laboratory equipment, staying current with scientific literature, and occasionally supervising junior researchers or students. This variety ensures that each day can bring new challenges and learning opportunities, making the role both dynamic and rewarding.

What does a cancer biologist do?

A cancer biologist researches the biological mechanisms that cause and promote cancer development. They study cancer cells, genetic mutations, and tumor environments using laboratory techniques and may work in research institutions or healthcare settings to develop new treatments or diagnostics.
What are popular job titles related to Cancer Biologist jobs in Iowa? For Cancer Biologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Infographic showing various Cancer Biologist job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Locum Tenens, 3% Internship, 67% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,974 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Research Associate - Radiology

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 613 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Iowa Health Care Department of Radiology is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to support National Cancer Institute (NCI)-funded preclinical and translational research focused on leveraging redox biology to improve treatment outcomes for lung cancers and neuroendocrine tumors. This position will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary research teams investigating high linear energy transfer (LET) radioligands, pharmacological ascorbate, and other redox-based therapeutic strategies.

The Research Associate will contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and dissemination of innovative research while providing advanced scientific expertise in free radical biology, radiation biology, and cancer therapeutics. Responsibilities include leading laboratory operations, mentoring and supervising research personnel, supporting grant proposal development, preparing scientific manuscripts and presentations, and coordinating collaborative research activities. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge cancer research that advances scientific discovery and improves patient outcomes.

Position ResponsibilitiesResearch
  • Conducts independent and collaborative research in redox biology, radiation biology, and cancer therapeutics
  • Designs, develops, and implements experimental protocols to investigate mechanisms of oxidative stress and therapeutic response in cancer
  • Critically evaluates scientific literature and integrate emerging discoveries into ongoing research programs
  • Contributes to the development of research hypotheses, grant proposals, publications, and presentations
Experiments, Investigations, Evaluations
  • Performs basic and complex procedures and techniques as outlined in research protocol, assure fidelity to protocols, may propose modifications to protocols and/or assist in the design of research protocols. 
  • Designs portions of research plan. Monitors, tests and evaluates current procedures
  • Identifies and adheres to Quality Assurance practices to maintain validity and integrity of research data
  • Leads the recruitment of participants for a human subjects' research study and develop a good rapport with research participants
  • Performs subject assessments such as evaluation of psychiatric symptoms and review of medical history; Assures study compliance and prepare documentation for annual review as well as modifications to the IRB
  • Oversees data entry into RedCap and monitor data quality on a regular basis.
Administrative and Project Management
  • Coordinates research activities among multidisciplinary investigators and collaborators.
  • Organizes, maintains, and analyzes research data and study documentation
  • Assists with preparation and submission of manuscripts, abstracts, grant applications, and progress reports
  • Participates in weekly research meetings to review data, plan experiments, and establish project priorities
Facilities and Equipment Management
  • Maintains laboratory equipment and coordinate troubleshooting and repairs when necessary
  • Ensures proper inventory, storage, and utilization of research supplies and reagents
  • Assists in maintaining laboratory compliance with institutional, regulatory, and safety requirements.

The information contained herein is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities required of individuals performing this job.

University of Iowa Health Care - recognized as one of the best hospitals in the United States-is Iowa's only comprehensive academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe, quality health care and excellent service for our patients. Simply stated, our mission is: Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.

Percent of Time: 100%

Schedule: Mon - Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location: Iowa City, IA

Pay Grade: 4A https://hr.uiowa.edu/pay/guide-pay-plans

Specified Term Appointment through July 31st, 2031

Benefits Highlights:
  • Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa.
  • Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
  • For more information about Why Iowa? Click here
Education Requirements
  • A Bachelor's degree in Radiation Biology, Cancer Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Free Radical Biology, or related educational field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience 
Experience Requirements
  • Minimum (1-3 years) experience conducting clinical research
  • Experience with molecular biology, biochemical, and cellular analysis techniques
  • Excellent written, verbal communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Ability to manage complex data
  • Ability to fluctuate occasionally working nights and weekends to enroll patients and/or monitor study patients as may be required by the enrollment protocol of the study
Desirable Qualifications
  • Experience with grant writing and manuscript preparation
  • Experience supervising research staff, students, or trainees
  • Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary research environments
Application Process

To be considered, applicants must upload a resume and a cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position. For questions, please reach out to Lori Steffens at lori-steffens@uiowa.edu.

  • Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days or until position is filled

  • Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check


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