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Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$88K - $132K/yr

Responsibilities The Variant Scientist functions in the clinical lab interpretive team, evaluating genomic test results to determine the pathogenicity and clinical significance of germline and ...

$77K - $120K/yr

This position is focused on supporting clinical genomic testing workflows for the diagnosis of ... Focus of the position is on all aspects of genetic variant analysis, curation, and interpretation.

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Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist information

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$36.5K

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How much do cancer genomic variant scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer genomic variant scientist in the United States is $79,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cancer genomic variant scientist do?

A Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist analyzes genetic data to identify mutations and variations in cancer genomes. They use advanced sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools to interpret how these genetic changes contribute to cancer development, progression, and treatment response. Their work helps in the discovery of new cancer biomarkers, supports personalized medicine approaches, and contributes to research on targeted therapies. These scientists often collaborate with oncologists, researchers, and other healthcare professionals to translate genomic findings into clinical insights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cancer genomic variant scientist?

To thrive as a Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and typically a graduate degree in a related field. Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, variant annotation software, and databases such as COSMIC and ClinVar is essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with clinical teams. These skills ensure accurate variant analysis, effective reporting, and meaningful contributions to patient care and research.

What are the main challenges a cancer genomic variant scientist faces when interpreting complex genomic data?

Cancer Genomic Variant Scientists regularly encounter challenges such as distinguishing between clinically relevant mutations and benign variants, especially given the complexity and heterogeneity of tumor genomes. Interpreting variants of unknown significance and integrating information from multiple bioinformatics tools requires critical thinking and up-to-date knowledge of emerging research. Additionally, communicating findings clearly to oncologists and multidisciplinary teams is essential, as these results directly impact patient care and treatment decisions.

What are popular job titles related to Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist jobs?

For Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cancer Genomic Variant Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 3% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,408 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Variant Scientist III

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Thermo Fisher Scientific
Biotechnology Research and Development • 10K+ employees

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 430 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

171st of 547 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Office

Job Description

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.
Discover Impactful Work
The Variant Scientist III will review, analyze, and compile complex clinical data from primary literature and clinical trials specific to biomarkers in cancer. You’ll provide scientific and technical expertise to a cross-functional team of scientists and software developers to build and maintain an internal knowledgebase of genomic aberrations and therapies relevant to cancer.  This role is part of the Bioinformatics team within the Clinical Next Generation Sequencing Division. The mission of this business unit is to develop next-generation sequencing-based solutions to support oncology research and other important unmet medical needs.
 

Location

This is a fully onsite role based in Ann Arbor, MI and relocation assistance is not provided. 

A Day in the Life

  • Read, interpret, and curate evidence from approved therapies, clinical guidelines, clinical trials, and scientific literature using customized software tools.
  • Actively participate in the interpretation, analysis, and summarization of various clinical sources for somatic and germline variant annotations and classification.
  • Review primary literature and author summaries that describe the relationships between gene variants and disease prognosis, diagnosis, and therapy selection.
  • Actively provide translational and clinical oncology expertise to the curation team in solid and/or hematological cancers.
  • Follow and maintain sustainable processes that ensure data accuracy and quality.
  • Work in a fast pace, cross-functional team of bioinformatics scientists, variant scientists, and software engineers to define and refine clinical reports.

Keys to Success

Education

  • PhD in cancer biology, cancer genomics, or molecular biology with expertise in solid or heme cancers. Post-doctoral experience preferred but not required.

Experience

  • Demonstrated understanding of cancer genomics, tumor biology, oncogenic signaling pathways.
  • Experience in reviewing and summarizing scientific literature for somatic and germline variants.
  • Experience with cancer mutation databases and disease ontologies.
  • Industry or clinical laboratory experience working in genomic variant curation and clinical interpretation is preferred.
  • Experience with IVD/regulated product development or genetic counseling is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills with ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Positive attitude with strong interpersonal skills.

Other

  • Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check and drug screen.

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