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Cancer Biology Phd Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cancer Radiation Biologist

Madison, WI · On-site

$201.50/hr

... research programs in cancer biology and/or radiation biology. The desired candidate will hold an MD, PhD, or MD/PhD degree, and have research interests broadly related to the biology of cancer.

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Cancer Biology Phd Program information

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$23K

$52.2K

$74.5K

How much do cancer biology phd program jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer biology phd program in the United States is $52,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $60,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges students face during a Cancer Biology PhD program, and how can they be managed?

Students in a Cancer Biology PhD program often encounter challenges such as balancing extensive laboratory research with coursework, staying current with rapidly evolving scientific literature, and managing the pressure to publish. Effective time management, regular communication with advisors, and participation in journal clubs or research seminars can help address these challenges. Many programs also offer mentorship and peer support structures to assist students in navigating both academic and personal aspects of their doctoral journey.

What is a Cancer Biology PhD program?

A Cancer Biology PhD program is an advanced graduate program focused on researching the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms of cancer development, progression, and treatment. Students in these programs receive rigorous training in laboratory research techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication specific to cancer biology. Graduates often pursue careers in academic research, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical industries, contributing to advancements in cancer understanding and therapy. The curriculum typically includes coursework in molecular biology, genetics, oncology, and hands-on research under faculty mentorship.

What is the difference between Cancer Biology Phd Program vs Cancer Research Scientist?

AspectCancer Biology Phd ProgramCancer Research Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Cancer Biology or related fieldTypically a Master's or PhD in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, universities, research institutionsPharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutes
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic research, teaching, grant-funded projectsIndustry-focused research, product development, clinical trials
Search & Comparison IntentEducational programs, research training, career pathwaysJob roles, industry careers, research opportunities

The Cancer Biology Phd Program prepares students for careers in academic research and teaching, focusing on foundational knowledge and research skills. In contrast, a Cancer Research Scientist typically works in industry settings, applying research to develop treatments or products. Both roles require advanced degrees and involve laboratory work, but their career paths and work environments differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Cancer Biology PhD program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Cancer Biology PhD program, candidates need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, typically supported by a relevant undergraduate or master's degree. Familiarity with laboratory techniques (e.g., PCR, cell culture), data analysis software, and sometimes bioinformatics tools is crucial. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication set outstanding students apart by enabling them to design experiments, solve research problems, and share findings clearly. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting impactful research, advancing scientific knowledge, and contributing to cancer treatment innovations.
Infographic showing various Cancer Biology Phd Program job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,190 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow, Cancer Neuroscience - Taylor Laboratory, Cancer Biology & Genetics Program

Msk

New York, NY

$72K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

About Us:

The people of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) are united by a singular mission: ending cancer for life. Our specialized care teams provide personalized, compassionate, expert care to patients of all ages. Informed by basic research done at our Sloan Kettering Institute, scientists across MSK collaborate to conduct innovative translational and clinical research that is driving a revolution in our understanding of cancer as a disease and improving the ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat it. MSK is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and clinicians, who go on to pursueour missionat MSK and around the globe.

Please review important announcements about vaccination requirements and our upcoming EHR implementation by clicking here.

Exciting Opportunity at MSK: Postdoctoral Fellow

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with a strong interest in cancer neuroscience. Our laboratory studies neuron-cancer interactions, with a focus on developmental malignancies. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, we leverage neuroscience tools and techniques to interrogate the microenvironmental influence of neural circuitry on pediatric and young adult cancers. Our group collaborates closely with physicians at Memorial Hospital and MSK core facilities to conduct innovative translational research.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct independent and collaborative research focused on the molecular mechanisms that drive pediatric cancer progression.

  • Design and execute in vitro and in vivo experiments using cell culture, mouse models and patient-derived samples.

  • Apply neuroscience techniques such as optogenetics, chemogenetics, fiber photometry, electrophysiology or calcium imaging to cancer models.

Key Requirements:

  • Competitive candidates should have obtained a Ph.D. in cancer biology or neuroscience.

  • A research background in pediatric cancers would be preferred but not necessary.

Core Skills:

  • The ideal candidate would have experience in any of the following techniques: stereotactic surgeries, patient-derived cultures or neuronal cultures, tumor molecular profiling (e.g. transcriptomic and epigenomic analyses), calcium imaging.

Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae, cover letter, and contact information for 3 references to Kathryn Taylor at taylork6@mskcc.org and Karen Reede at reedek@mskcc.org. The Taylor lab is located at 417 E 68th Street, New York, NY 10065.

Learn more about the Taylor Lab and the Cancer Biology & Genetics Program.

Learn more about working as a Post-Doctoral at MSK: What distinguishes this opportunity is you will gain access to high-quality facilities, innovative technologies, and a collaborative environment that promotes ingenuity. Collaborating with leading professionals in cancer biology and neuroscience, you will contribute to groundbreaking research that can revolutionize patient outcomes globally.

Pay Range: $72,000 - $78,676

Helpful links:

  • MSK Compensation Philosophy

  • Review Our Great Benefits Offerings

  • Learn more about postdoctoral training at MSK

Pay Range: $0.00 - $10,000,000.00FSLA Status: Exempt

Closing:

At MSK, we believe in fair, competitive pay that reflects your job, experience, and skills.

MSK is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran status or any other factor which cannot lawfully be used as a basis for an employment decision.

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.