1

Cancer Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$73K - $80K/yr

We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician ... Abstracts all cancer sites * Complicated follow-up/recurrences/subsequent treatment * CoC Cancer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cancer Research information

See salary details

$25.5K

$87.4K

$185K

How much do cancer research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for cancer research in the United States is $87,418.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cancer Researcher, and why are they important?

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.

Do you need a PhD to do cancer research?

Cancer research roles vary, but many positions, such as research assistants or laboratory technicians, do not require a PhD and may only need a bachelor's or master's degree. However, advanced roles like principal investigators or senior scientists typically require a PhD and extensive experience in the field.

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 a specialized area of cancer research. Gaining laboratory skills, experience with research methodologies, and familiarity with tools like microscopy and data analysis are essential, along with a strong understanding of cancer biology. Postdoctoral training or internships can also enhance expertise and job prospects in this field.

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 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 medicine, and may involve working in laboratories, hospitals, or research institutions to develop treatments and understand cancer mechanisms.

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 additional certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in academic or industry settings with research funding. Salary also varies based on the level of education, such as a Ph.D. or postdoctoral experience, and the specific 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.
More about Cancer Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Cancer Research jobs? Cities with the most Cancer Research 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 jobs? States with the most job openings for Cancer Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cancer Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,418 per year, or $42 per hour.
Clinical Research Coordinator - Cancer Genetics

Clinical Research Coordinator - Cancer Genetics

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, MA

$48K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 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

Investigators in the Division of Cancer Genetics and Prevention at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute seek a full-time Clinical Research Coordinator to assist in clinical and non-clinical research studies related to cancer prevention, genetic testing, early identification of individuals at high-risk of cancer, and biorepository collections. This is an exciting and challenging opportunity for an individual who is motivated to work in an innovative academic center on cutting edge genetics research, and is interested in working directly with patients, providers, and researchers.

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.
 

MIMIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree required, with a focus in public health, social science, or natural science preferred

  • 0-1 years of research experience required, with experience in a clinical or scientific setting strongly preferred

  • Effective in working independently and as part of a team

  • Comfortable with patient and clinical staff interaction and handling research specimens (e.g. saliva, blood, tissue, and/or urine)

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for participant recruitment, data reporting and management, collection of source documents, use and development of case report forms, adverse event reporting, filing and archiving of study records, and resolution of data queries

  • Interact with study participants as directed/required by the protocol and/or study team

  • Ensure all study related samples are collected, properly prepared and shipped according to the protocol requirements and IATA/DOT regulations

  • Responsible for organizing and preparing for both internal and external auditing and study monitoring visits

  • Coordination and management of studies, including communication with regulatory authorities

  • Close-out of studies, including contributing to research articles, audit preparation, and communication with regulatory agencies and other disciplines involved

  • Facilitation of blood and tissue specimen collection processes, with potential travel needed to other local institutions via shuttle network. Training and supervision will be provided.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate and relate effectively with diverse groups of patients, medical personnel, and research staff in-person and/or remotely via telephone, e-mail, and videoconferencing

  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational, communication, problem-solving, and time management skills

  • Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office products, knowledge or ability to learn other systems such as Epic and REDCap

  • Competencies in study data entry and/or CRF completion, research study coordination, and regulatory requirements

  • Dependable, motivated, and willing to learn new processes and procedures as needed

  • Ability to approach projects in a responsible, thoughtful, and thorough manner

  • Able to work on-site or remotely, as needed

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

PATIENT CONTACT:

Will have contact with patients of all ages and populations.

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).

$48,100.00 - $54,400.00

What Dana-Farber Cancer Institute employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Dana-Farber Cancer Institute logo

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