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Entry Level Cancer Research Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

$16.92 - $26.44/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum of 1 year of research experience in a biology laboratory (cancer research would be a plus). * Basic laboratory skills in molecular biology and cell biology. * Entry-level coding experience in ...

Entry Level Cancer Research information

See Missouri salary details

$13

$25

$74

How much do entry level cancer research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cancer research in Missouri is $25.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level cancer research?

An Entry Level Cancer Research job typically involves assisting senior researchers in studying cancer biology, treatment methods, and potential cures. Responsibilities may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, maintaining laboratory equipment, and documenting findings. These positions are often found in academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies. Candidates usually have a bachelor's or master's degree in biology, biotechnology, or a related field. This role provides valuable hands-on experience for those looking to advance in oncology research or medical fields.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in entry level cancer research?

In an entry level cancer research role, you can expect to spend much of your time conducting laboratory experiments, preparing samples, and recording meticulous notes on your findings. You'll often assist senior researchers by maintaining lab equipment, managing inventories, and helping with data entry or basic analysis. Collaboration is key, so you’ll regularly participate in team meetings and may present your results or discuss troubleshooting methods. These responsibilities allow you to build practical skills and contribute meaningfully to ongoing research projects, laying a strong foundation for career growth in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in entry level cancer research?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cancer Researcher, you typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field, along with foundational laboratory and data analysis skills. Familiarity with lab equipment (such as PCR machines and spectrophotometers), basic statistical software (like SPSS or R), and adherence to safety protocols are important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help distinguish candidates in this collaborative and precise work environment. Mastery of these skills ensures rigorous and reliable research, vital for advancing cancer treatments and patient outcomes.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cancer Research jobs in Missouri?

For Entry Level Cancer Research jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Entry Level Cancer Research jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Entry Level Cancer Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cancer Research job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,148 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

$16.92 - $26.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Washington University In St. Louis rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

LocationSAINT LOUIS, MO 63110 Scheduled Hours40Position SummaryA full-time Research Technician II position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Rui Tang at WashU in St. Louis. The Tang Lab studies the mechanisms of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) metastasis, with a focus on how cancer cells communicate with neighboring stromal cells during the metastatic cascade.
We use a combination of functional genomics, single cell technology, and mouse engineering to uncover the biology of tumor progression and metastasis. We also apply biostatistics, quantitative biology, and synthetic biology to understand how cell-cell interactions influence cell state and fundamental biological programs.
Assists with the technical aspects of studies and experiments, including documentation and preparation of materials.Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

For more information about the lab, please visit: www.sites.wustl.edu/tanglab/research/.

  • Assists with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.

  • Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.

  • Prepares tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.

  • Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.

  • Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.

  • Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Applicant Special Instructions:

When applying, please submit a CV/resume and a brief description of research experience and career goals.

Working Conditions:

  • This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.

  • The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.


Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.


Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.


Skills:

Not Applicable


Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.More About This Job

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in a biological science with a strong academic record.

  • A strong team player with good communication skills.

  • Self-motivated, with long-term goals of advanced training.

  • Minimum of 1 year of research experience in a biology laboratory (cancer research would be a plus).

  • Basic laboratory skills in molecular biology and cell biology.

  • Entry-level coding experience in R, Python, and/or Linux.

  • Prior experience with NGS data analysis is a strong plus.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.


Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.


Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Communication, Detailed Reports, Laboratory Instrumentation, Laboratory Research, Software Program, Working IndependentlyGradeR06-HSalary Range$16.92 - $26.44 / HourlyThe salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please emailCandidateQuestions@wustl.eduor call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.Pre-Employment ScreeningAll external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.Benefits Statement

Personal

  • Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

  • Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

  • Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

  • WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

  • Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

  • We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We've got you covered.

  • WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO StatementWashington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

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About Washington University in St. Louis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Washington University in St. Louis, often simply known as WashU, is a prestigious private research university in the United States. Headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri, the university operates within the Education industry offering an array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs encompassing various areas like arts, sciences, business, design, medicine, and engineering. Established in 1853, the university has a storied past rooted in determination, resilience, and commitment to knowledge and innovation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1853