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Cancer Research Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The research conducted by Tiwari lab utilizes medical imaging and clinical data to build and ... cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver disease). The Scientist will be responsible for identifying ...

Research / Scientific The Ye Lab, led by Principal Investigator Qi Ye, Ph.D., at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Cancer Research Center in Washington, DC, is seeking a full-time Research ...

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How much do cancer research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cancer research lab in the United States is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a cancer research lab?

Professionals in cancer research labs often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple research projects with tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly evolving scientific techniques, and troubleshooting complex experiments. Collaboration is key, as lab members frequently work in interdisciplinary teams, requiring strong communication and coordination skills. Additionally, maintaining meticulous records and adhering to stringent safety protocols are essential for both research integrity and regulatory compliance.

How much do cancer researchers get paid?

Cancer researchers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while senior roles or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in research institutions or pharmaceutical companies.

What is a cancer research lab?

A cancer research lab is a scientific facility where researchers study the causes, development, prevention, and treatment of cancer. Scientists in these labs use a variety of techniques to investigate the molecular, genetic, and cellular mechanisms that drive cancer. The goal is to develop better diagnostic tools, new therapies, and ultimately find cures for different types of cancer. Cancer research labs may be part of universities, hospitals, or private organizations and often collaborate with clinical teams to translate findings into patient care.

What qualifications do you need to be a cancer researcher?

A cancer researcher typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field, with many positions requiring a master's or Ph.D. in biomedical sciences or oncology. Strong laboratory skills, experience with research methodologies, and familiarity with scientific tools and data analysis are also important qualifications.

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

Success in a Cancer Research Lab requires a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related life sciences, usually supported by a relevant degree such as a BSc, MSc, or PhD. Proficiency with laboratory techniques like PCR, flow cytometry, cell culture, and data analysis software is essential, and certifications in laboratory safety are often advantageous. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that help researchers solve complex problems and collaborate on experiments. These skills ensure rigorous scientific methodology, reliable results, and innovation in the pursuit of advancements in cancer treatment.

What is the difference between Cancer Research Lab vs Cancer Research Technician?

AspectCancer Research LabCancer Research Technician
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's or PhD), specialized research trainingBachelor's degree, laboratory experience
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, academic or industry settingsLaboratories, clinical research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, biotech companies, research institutesHospitals, research labs, biotech firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, career paths in cancer researchJob responsibilities, qualifications, and career options

The Cancer Research Lab typically refers to a research environment involving scientists with advanced degrees conducting experiments and studies. In contrast, a Cancer Research Technician usually holds a bachelor's degree and assists with laboratory tasks. Both roles are essential in cancer research but differ in education requirements, responsibilities, and work scope.

Do cancer researchers work in labs?

Yes, cancer researchers typically work in laboratories where they conduct experiments, analyze samples, and study cancer biology. They often use specialized equipment and techniques such as microscopy, cell culture, and molecular analysis to advance understanding and develop treatments.

What is the highest paying lab job?

In a cancer research lab, senior roles such as Principal Investigator or Laboratory Director typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities, and they may include additional benefits like research funding and grants.
More about Cancer Research Lab jobs
What states have the most Cancer Research Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Cancer Research Lab jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cancer Research Lab job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,815 per year, or $22 per hour.
Research Technician - Wolpin-Nowak Lab

Research Technician - Wolpin-Nowak Lab

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, MA

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Dana-Farber Cancer Institute rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute seeks a research technician to focus on next-generation, translational pathology studies who will work within the Wolpin-Nowak laboratory: https://labs.dana-farber.org/wolpin-nowaklab as part of the Hale Family Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research: https://labs.dana-farber.org/halecenter and the Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Our research group investigates the biology and risk factors associated with pancreatic and other gastrointestinal cancers. We aim to improve outcomes for patients with these diseases both by identifying cancer earlier, when the chance for a cure is greater, and by improving therapy. We focus on learning from cancer patients by studying human biospecimens so that our discoveries can be rapidly and confidently translated into improved clinical care.
Our laboratory members include epidemiologists, biostatisticians, pathologists, data scientists, molecular biologists, and clinical researchers, all of whom contribute their unique expertise to our lab’s work. We employ a broad variety of analysis approaches and techniques in our laboratory, including population-scale epidemiology studies, digital pathology, genomic sequencing, and spatial transcriptomic and protein profiling. Our tissue profiling work encompasses both clinical trial correlative studies and landscape-directed discovery studies. We work closely with the Gastrointestinal Cancer Center Biobank to acquire blood, tissue, and other sample types from patients at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Finally, we routinely collaborate both with investigators at Dana-Farber and across the nation to study pancreatic cancer using model systems and to conduct and lead clinical trials.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.
 

  • Perform experimental analyses in the laboratory, conduct quality control review of data, interpret results, and share findings in formal and information presentations of results to lab members.
  • Prepare biospecimen for analysis, including sectioning of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue.
  • Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain and troubleshoot equipment.
  • Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas. May be responsible for ordering supplies. Collaborate with purchasing. May be responsible for negotiating with vendors.
  • Maintain detailed records tracking experiments and other work-related activities in either electronic or written notebooks.
  • Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety information as well as standard operation procedures specific to our laboratory.
  • Demonstrate intellectual and interactive commitment to position by keeping up with appropriate literature and research publications.
  • Use computers and computer-interfaced instrumentation to perform work duties.
  • Assist with various needs of the GI Biobank, including blood processing and sample organization.
  • May be responsible for the development, modification and improvement of laboratory assays under the supervision of senior lab members.
  • May be responsible for the examination of animal tissue specimens for project involving collaborating laboratories

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

  • Knowledge of information and techniques related to either biology, chemistry, or medicine is preferred.
  • Must have excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to work with a wide variety of faculty and staff.
  • Ability to analyze information and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.
  • Must have attention to detail and be thorough in completing work tasks.
  • Ability to work within a team environment.

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

The position requires a bachelor’s degree, preferably in biology or chemistry, with no prior professional experience necessary. Candidates will learn and apply technical principles, processes, and concepts, use institutional policies to address routine issues, and work on problems of limited scope. The role involves following standard practices to analyze situations or data and building stable internal working relationships.

  • Bachelor's Degree required with a major in biology or chemistry preferred.
  • Knowledge of information and techniques related to either biology, chemistry, or medicine is preferred.
  • Must have excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to work with a wide variety of faculty and staff.
  • Ability to analyze information and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.
  • Must have attention to detail and be thorough in completing work tasks.
  • Ability to work within a team environment.
  • Experience with programming in R, Python or similar languages is a plus.
  • Familiarity with tissue-based pathology analysis is a plus.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are committed to having faculty and staff who offer multifaceted experiences. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and compassionate professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.  

EEO Poster.

Pay Transparency Statement

The hiring range is based on market pay structures, with individual salaries determined by factors such as business needs, market conditions, internal equity, and based on the candidate’s relevant experience, skills and qualifications.

For union positions, the pay range is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

$47,500.00 - $51,300.00

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About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1947