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Cancer Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

D. in cancer biology, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline. Background in cancer research and a track record of scientific presentations and publications. Proficiency in a range of ...

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Cancer Research information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$85K

$179.9K

How much do cancer research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer research in Virginia is $85,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,489.00 and $106,978.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cancer research?

Cancer research is the scientific study of cancer, including its causes, development, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Researchers in this field work to understand how cancer cells grow and spread, and they develop new methods for detecting and treating different types of cancer. This work can involve laboratory experiments, clinical trials, and the analysis of patient data. The ultimate goal of cancer research is to improve patient outcomes and find cures or more effective therapies for cancer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cancer researcher?

To thrive as a Cancer Researcher, you need a strong background in biomedical sciences, laboratory techniques, and often a PhD or relevant graduate degree. Familiarity with molecular biology tools, statistical analysis software, and laboratory information management systems is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help researchers design studies, analyze data, and collaborate effectively. These skills are vital for advancing cancer understanding, developing new treatments, and contributing to impactful scientific progress.

What are typical collaboration opportunities for professionals working in cancer research?

Professionals in cancer research frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams that include clinicians, pathologists, bioinformaticians, and laboratory technicians. These collaborations are essential for translating laboratory findings into clinical applications, designing effective studies, and analyzing complex data sets. Team meetings, joint grant proposals, and co-authored publications are common, providing valuable opportunities for professional growth and learning from experts in related fields. This collaborative environment also allows researchers to contribute to larger projects and stay updated with the latest advancements in oncology.

What is the difference between Cancer Research vs Cancer Biologist?

AspectCancer ResearchCancer Biologist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a PhD or Master's in biology, biochemistry, or related fieldsUsually holds a PhD in biology, biochemistry, or molecular biology
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, pharmaceutical companiesLaboratories, academic institutions, research centers
Employer & Industry UsageResearch organizations, biotech firms, universitiesAcademic labs, research institutes, biotech companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared with Cancer Biologist due to overlapping roles in research

While both Cancer Researchers and Cancer Biologists work in laboratory settings focusing on cancer, Cancer Researchers often have broader roles including clinical trials and drug development, whereas Cancer Biologists primarily focus on understanding the biological mechanisms of cancer at the cellular and molecular levels.

Are cancer researchers in demand?

Cancer researchers are in demand due to ongoing advancements in cancer biology and treatment, with employment opportunities available in academic institutions, healthcare organizations, and pharmaceutical companies. The field often requires strong analytical skills, laboratory experience, and relevant advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. or M.D. to qualify for research roles.

Do cancer researchers make good money?

Cancer researchers typically earn a median salary ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with PhDs and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in academic or industry settings. Salary growth often correlates with research funding, publication record, and professional development.

How do you become a cancer researcher?

To become a cancer researcher, typically one needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or biomedical sciences, followed by a master's or Ph.D. in cancer biology or a related area. Gaining laboratory experience, developing skills in research methods, and staying current with scientific literature are essential for advancing in this field.

What careers are in cancer research?

Careers in cancer research include roles such as research scientist, clinical researcher, laboratory technician, and data analyst. These positions often require knowledge of biology, chemistry, or related fields, and may involve working in laboratories, hospitals, or research institutions to develop treatments and understand cancer mechanisms.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cancer Research jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Cancer Research jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cancer Research jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Cancer Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Cancer Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,017 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Research Manager - Cancer Analytics

Inova Health System

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Inova Cancer Research is looking for a dedicated Research Manager – Cancer Analytics to join the Team. This hybrid full‑time will be day‑shift working Monday – Friday located in Falls Church, VA.

The Research Manager – Cancer Analytics will manage the development, operationalization, governance, and evolution of cancer research data resources and projects, serving as a bridge between clinical investigators, data scientists and IT, regulatory, and institutional leadership.

Featured Benefits
  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions – starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities.
Responsibilities
  • Utilizes department registries, hospital databases, and other existing information sources to gather data about patient populations of interest.
  • Performs simple and advanced statistical analysis using appropriate analysis software.
  • Consults with groups outside of the department to provide expert assistance with data analysis for research/quality projects related to overall Inova strategic goals meeting all required timelines.
  • Authors or co‑authors an article for successful publication in a peer‑reviewed journal.
  • Prepares reports for performance improvement and other department needs.
  • Presents findings of analyses at national‑level meetings.
  • Designs rigorous research and performance improvement projects to support the goals of the department.
  • Supervises the collection of data for all research studies within the department.
  • Provides expert assistance with the design and implementation of system‑wide research/quality projects related to overall Inova strategic goals.
  • Designs databases for use in research, performance improvement, and other department activities.
  • Supervises the entry of data into multiple databases.
  • Performs continuing education programs for hospital and non‑hospital healthcare personnel.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: Master’s degree in applied Data or Health Science
  • Experience: 3 years of experience conducting and coordinating clinical research protocols
Preferred Qualifications
  • 5 – 10 years working in an academic medical center or large health system setting preferred.
  • Demonstrable knowledge/experience with IRB processes, data governance, and/or clinical data analytics or operations (oncology preferred) in a healthcare setting.
  • Familiarity with Epic, research data repositories, and/or registries.
  • Demonstrable experience leading/managing cross‑functional teams and research projects with excellent communication skills.
  • Knowledge/experience with applied statistical methods and software would be an asset.
About Us

We are Inova, Northern Virginia’s leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world‑class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best‑in‑class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better — to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare.

Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy‑related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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