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Phd In Biotechnology Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Phd In Biotechnology information

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$14

$27

$36

How much do phd in biotechnology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd in biotechnology in Oklahoma is $27.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.51 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in Biotechnology?

A PhD in Biotechnology is a doctoral-level degree focused on advanced research in the application of biological systems and organisms to develop products and processes for various industries. Students in this program engage in original research, often in areas like genetics, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental biotechnology. The program typically involves coursework, laboratory work, and the completion of a dissertation. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, biotechnology companies, and regulatory agencies. Earning a PhD in this field demonstrates expertise and the ability to contribute to scientific innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Biotechnology?

To thrive as a PhD in Biotechnology, you need advanced knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and bioengineering, supported by a doctoral degree in biotechnology or a related field. Proficiency with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and research methodologies, as well as familiarity with tools like CRISPR and next-generation sequencing, is essential. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you lead research projects and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring research quality, and translating findings into real-world applications.

What types of career advancement opportunities can I expect after completing a PhD in Biotechnology?

After earning a PhD in Biotechnology, you can pursue various advancement paths depending on your interests and expertise. Many graduates transition into senior research roles in academia or industry, often leading research teams or projects. Others move into specialized areas such as regulatory affairs, intellectual property, or business development within biotech companies. Teaching positions at universities or roles in government agencies and policy organizations are also common. Networking, publishing research, and gaining experience in interdisciplinary projects can further enhance your advancement prospects.

What is the difference between Phd In Biotechnology vs Biotech Research Scientist?

AspectPhd In BiotechnologyBiotech Research Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Biotechnology or related fieldTypically a Master's or PhD in Biotechnology or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or industry R&D labsIndustry laboratories, biotech companies, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsBiotech and pharmaceutical companies, research organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic vs industry roles in biotechCareer paths and qualifications in biotech research

While a Phd In Biotechnology is a research-focused degree preparing individuals for academic or advanced industry roles, a Biotech Research Scientist is a professional role within biotech companies or labs. Both require strong research skills, but the PhD emphasizes academic research, whereas the Research Scientist applies those skills in industry settings.

Is a PhD in biotechnology worth it?

A PhD in biotechnology can lead to advanced research, development, and academic roles, often requiring strong laboratory skills and knowledge of molecular biology and bioinformatics. While it offers opportunities in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and biotech industries, it typically involves several years of study and research investment, with career advancement depending on experience and specialization.

What jobs can you get with a PhD in biotechnology?

A PhD in biotechnology qualifies individuals for roles such as research scientist, bioprocess engineer, or biotech project manager. These positions often involve laboratory work, data analysis, and product development in industries like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and healthcare, requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of laboratory techniques and regulatory standards.

Which field of biotechnology is best for a PhD in biotechnology?

For a PhD in biotechnology, the best field depends on career goals, but areas like biomedical, agricultural, and environmental biotechnology are highly in demand. Specializing in molecular biology, genetic engineering, or bioinformatics can enhance job prospects, especially when combined with relevant laboratory skills and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Biotechnology jobs in Oklahoma?

For Phd In Biotechnology jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Phd In Biotechnology job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,550 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Professor and Program Chair, Cancer Biology - This search is paused for leadership review.

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
Scientific Research and Development Services • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead and grow a cohesive, collaborative, and nationally competitive research program in cancer biology at OMRF that spans mechanistic discovery through translation

  • Maintain an internationally recognized and well-funded research program

  • Recruit, mentor, and retain senior and junior faculty and trainees


Job description

This search is paused for leadership review.

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) and its Cell Cycle & Cancer Biology (CCCB) Research Program invite applications and nominations for the position of Professor and Program Chair. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an established scientific leader to build and direct a nationally visible cancer biology program at an institution with exceptional strengths in fundamental discovery, translational research, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

About OMRF
Founded in 1946, OMRF is one of the nations oldest and most respected independent biomedical research institutes. OMRF is a nonprofit, independent research institute dedicated to conducting biomedical research that enables more people to live longer, healthier lives. With an annual budget of about $100 million, more than 50 principal investigators, and a strong record of funding from the National Institutes of Health, technology transfer, and philanthropy, OMRF offers a stable and supportive environment for basic and translational research.

OMRFs research strengths include aging, immunology, autoimmunity, cardiovascular biology, genetics, epigenetics, neurodegeneration, and cell cycle biology. OMRF is located in the Oklahoma Health Center in Oklahoma City, adjacent to the University of Oklahoma Health Campus, the Oklahoma City VA, and the National Cancer Institute-designated Stephenson Cancer Center.

Opportunity and Vision
OMRF seeks a distinguished scientific leader to serve as Program Chair and to expand its cancer biology enterprise, building on the foundation of the existing CCCB Research Program. This program has internationally recognized expertise in chromosome dynamics, DNA repair and replication, genomic instability, transcription, epigenetics, and cell cycle regulation. The next Program Chair will lead the growth of this program into a broad and comprehensive cancer biology program that:

  • Advances fundamental understanding of cancer mechanisms and translates those discoveries toward therapeutic applications
  • Builds on existing expertise within CCCB while expanding research approaches and model systems
  • Expands funding through the NCI and other federal sources
  • Builds collaborations across OMRFs research programs
  • Establishes meaningful collaborations with clinicians and investigators at the University of Oklahoma and the Stephenson Cancer Center

This role is intended for a leader with the vision, credibility, and experience to shape OMRFs cancer research trajectory for the next decade and beyond, while maintaining scientific rigor and leveraging the programs foundational strengths in the study of underlying mechanisms of cancer.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and grow a cohesive, collaborative, and nationally competitive research program in cancer biology at OMRF that spans mechanistic discovery through translation
  • Maintain an internationally recognized and well-funded research program
  • Recruit, mentor, and retain senior and junior faculty and trainees
  • Lead diversification of funding portfolios, including the addition of multi-investigator and center-level grants
  • Enhance national visibility and philanthropic engagement

Required Qualifications and Core Competencies

  • A PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in cancer biology or a closely related field
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate mechanistic and cancer-focused research, evidenced by a distinguished research portfolio and publications
  • A robust history of NCI and other funding supporting cancer biology research
  • Demonstrated success in scientific leadership, such as directing a research program, division, department, or center
  • Experience recruiting, mentoring, and evaluating faculty and trainees

Preferred Qualifications and Strategic Experience

  • Experience in mechanistic cancer biology researchsuch as DNA replication and repair, genomic instability, chromosome dynamics, cell cycle regulation, transcription, or related fundamental processesand demonstrated ability to connect these mechanisms to cancer phenotypes such as tumor initiation, progression, therapeutic resistance, or recurrence
  • Building scientific bridges between cancer biology and related disciplines such as aging, immune dysregulation, inflammation, genetics and epigenetics, cardiovascular biology, or autoimmunity, especially with relationship to long-term consequences of cancer treatments
  • Expanding research into alternative model systems, including organoids, in vivo models, human tissues, or biofluids
  • Leading team science initiatives, including program projects, centers, or large collaborative grants
  • Advancing intellectual property, technology development, or early-stage biotechnology efforts
  • Nurturing philanthropic relationships that support cancer research

Resources and Institutional Commitment
OMRF will make a significant institutional investment in the successful candidate, including:

  • A highly competitive start-up package
  • Resources to recruit 35 additional faculty members in cancer biology during the startup period
  • Access to spacious, well-equipped laboratory space with renovations and modernization as needed
  • Institutional support for shared scientific equipment and core facility expansion
  • Access to OMRFs extensive research infrastructure and technology transfer expertise
  • Close partnership with senior OMRF leadership to support long-term program growth and sustainability

About Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is a dynamic and affordable metropolitan area with a growing biomedical and health sciences ecosystem, a high quality of life, a vibrant cultural scene, and easy access to outdoor recreation.

How to Apply
This search is paused for leadership review. Applications will remain on file but will not be considered at this time.
Applicants should submit the following documents:

A cover letter describing their (1) scientific research program, (2) leadership experience, and (3) plans for expanding and leading a cancer biology program at OMRF
A curriculum vitae including contact information for three references; these individuals will be contacted for shortlisted candidates

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.