1

Cancer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$17 - $23.50/hr

Research experience in molecular biology, cancer biology and mouse experimentation is highly ... Research Assistant Department: Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Grade: Grade 7 ...

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Research experience in molecular biology, cancer biology and mouse experimentation is highly ... Research Assistant Department: Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Grade: Grade 7 ...

About Us: The people of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) are united by a singular ... Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center seeks Research Assistant in New York, NY to be responsible ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cancer Research Assistant information

See salary details

$9

$32

$75

How much do cancer research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for cancer research assistant in the United States is $32.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Cancer Research Assistant, you need a background in biology or a related field, with experience in laboratory techniques and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), statistical software, and compliance protocols such as Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) is highly beneficial. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are important soft skills for this position. These skills enable accurate experimentation, reliable results, and seamless teamwork in advancing cancer research projects.

How much is a research assistant paid?

A cancer research assistant typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, education, and location. Full-time positions may offer annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, often with benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a position as a cancer research assistant can be competitive and typically requires relevant education, such as a bachelor's degree in a related field, along with laboratory skills and research experience. Strong organizational skills and familiarity with research tools like data analysis software can improve chances, but the level of difficulty varies depending on the institution and location.

What does a typical day look like for a Cancer Research Assistant?

A typical day for a Cancer Research Assistant often includes preparing and conducting laboratory experiments, recording and analyzing data, and maintaining lab equipment and inventory. You may also assist in the preparation of reports, contribute to scientific publications, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Collaboration with research scientists, clinicians, and other lab staff is common, as projects often require teamwork and interdisciplinary input. This dynamic environment offers the opportunity to learn new techniques and directly contribute to ongoing cancer research efforts.

What qualifications do I need to be a cancer researcher?

To become a cancer research assistant, a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field is typically required, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. in a biomedical science. Strong laboratory skills, familiarity with research tools and techniques, and attention to detail are essential. Relevant experience through internships or research projects can also improve job prospects.

What does a Cancer Research Assistant do?

A Cancer Research Assistant supports scientific studies focused on understanding, preventing, and treating cancer. They assist with laboratory experiments, data analysis, literature reviews, and administrative tasks. Their responsibilities may include handling biological samples, maintaining lab equipment, and documenting research findings. They work closely with researchers and healthcare professionals to contribute to advancements in cancer treatment and therapies.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

To become a cancer research assistant, candidates typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Laboratory skills, familiarity with research protocols, and attention to detail are important, and some positions may require experience with data analysis or specific laboratory techniques.
More about Cancer Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Cancer Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Cancer Research Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cancer Research jobs? The most popular types of Cancer Research jobs are:
What states have the most Cancer Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Cancer Research Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cancer Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 81% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,767 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Research Assistant

$17 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Brown University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description:

The Research Assistant will have three primary responsibilities: (1) laboratory maintenance and support, (2) maintaining quality and stocks of human and murine cell lines as well as DNA plasmids, and (3) assisting with conducting bench and animal experiments within existing research projects, including mouse experiments. The Research Assistant will be conducting laboratory and mouse experiments within established protocols as needed on several projects in the lab which need to produce high quality results to be included in manuscript submissions and grant applications.

The lab of Dr. Sendurai Mani is dedicated to investigating the biology of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and identifying the drivers of the cancer stem cell phenotype. The lab is determined to identify resistance mechanisms and develop strategies to prevent and overcome therapy resistance and metastatic progression using preclinical models and profiling patient tumor samples on the single cell level. By target the EMT-signaling pathways and treating metastasis, the lab's goal is to cure cancer patients regardless of their stage.

This is a fixed term position with a current end date of 04/30/2027 which may be extended based upon available funding.

Education and Experience

  • Required: Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

  • Required: Prior related undergraduate experience or extensive coursework (grade 7) or 1-2 years of related experience in a biology laboratory (grade 8)

  • And/or the equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Research experience in molecular biology, cancer biology and mouse experimentation is highly desired.

  • Experience in animal experimentation is a plus

Job Competencies

  • General background knowledge of cancer biology

  • Interest in scientific research

  • Ability to be organized and keep accurate records

  • Ability to follow detailed instructions

  • Proficiency with computers and essential software programs (such as MS office)

  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills and be able to present complex data in clear presentations

  • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a diverse group of people, with vastly different skills and training

  • Outstanding problem-solving skills, ability to implement solutions

  • May be required to work some nights and/or weekends based on lab/research needs.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND AND EDUCATION CHECK REQUIRED

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-04-20

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine

Grade:

Grade 7

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite


Submission Guidelines:

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. All remote work must be performed in a state in which Brown is registered to do business.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.


What Brown University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom