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Cancer Research Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Cancer Research information

See Boston, MA salary details

$27.3K

$93.6K

$198K

How much do cancer research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer research in Boston, MA is $93,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,877.00 and $117,755.00 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Cancer Research jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Cancer Research jobs in Boston, MA?

For Cancer Research jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Cancer Research jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Cancer Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Cancer Research job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,581 per year, or $45 per hour.

$145K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Dana-Farber Cancer Institute rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Department of Data Science at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) seeks candidates with a strong background in biostatistics, machine learning, and/or computational biology to collaborate with researchers at the Hale Family Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research.

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.
 

The Department of Data Science at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) seeks candidates with a strong background in biostatistics, machine learning, and/or computational biology to collaborate with researchers at the Hale Family Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research. The successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to collaborate with basic scientists, clinical and biomedical researchers at DFCI, as well as with faculty across Harvard. The position will be based in the Department of Data Science at DFCI with a Research Scientist track appointment in the Department of Biostatistics at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. This is considered a non-tenure track faculty position at DFCI and provides a salary similar to tenure track faculty, independence to choose projects, grant submission support, and the opportunity to hire and supervise a research team. The position also permits seeking external and internal funding for independent projects.

The Department of Data Science at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute offers an exceptional collaborative environment with experts in a wide range of areas, including clinical trials, cancer genetics, immunology, epigenetics, machine learning, statistical software development, Bayesian methods, and alignment algorithms.

Roles and Responsibilities

Conducts research as an independent investigator or plays a leadership role in research projects, for example, as a senior analyst in one or more research projects, presenting results and preparing publications; collaborating with external researchers or supervising research staff. Generally, research scientists aspire to a career as a professional researcher or research manager. 

Qualifications

·       Doctoral degree in biostatistics, machine learning, or computational biology

·       Minimum two years of postdoctoral experience

·       Evidence of ability to excel in research

·       Major contributor to refereed publications, beyond thesis papers

·       Evidence of leadership in scientific administration, including the supervision of research staff

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).

$145,000.00 - $162,000.00

What Dana-Farber Cancer Institute employees say

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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