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Research Biologist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Oncology focus areas may include radiation biology, cell signaling, genetics, DNA damage and repair ... In addition to research and teaching activities, this candidate will also participate in graduate ...

Enjoys working as a team member as well as independently The Research Specialist will perform molecular, cell biology, and/or immunology experiments to support ongoing projects in the lab. The ...

Oncology focus areas may include radiation biology, cell signaling, genetics, DNA damage and repair ... In addition to research and teaching activities, this candidate will also participate in graduate ...

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Research Biologist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$36.8K

$88.7K

$134.2K

How much do research biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for research biologist in Wisconsin is $88,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research biologist?

Research biologists are scientists who study living organisms and their relationship to the environment. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and often publish their findings to advance knowledge in fields such as ecology, genetics, or physiology. Research biologists may work in laboratories, in the field, or both, depending on their area of specialization. Their work often contributes to scientific understanding, environmental conservation, and the development of new medical or technological solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by research biologists when conducting experiments in the field versus the laboratory?

Research biologists often encounter unique challenges depending on whether their work is conducted in the field or in a laboratory setting. Fieldwork can present unpredictable variables such as weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to equipment, which may complicate data collection and experiment replication. In contrast, laboratory work offers controlled conditions but may limit the ability to observe organisms in their natural environments, potentially influencing the accuracy of behavioral or ecological studies. Balancing these environments and adapting methodologies is a key skill for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Research Biologist, you need a solid background in biological sciences, data analysis, and experimental design, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, statistical analysis software (such as R or SPSS), and sometimes specialized certifications like GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) are important. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills set standout professionals apart. These competencies are crucial for conducting reliable research, interpreting results accurately, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Research Biologist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectResearch BiologistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology or related field; often a PhD for advanced rolesAssociate’s or Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agencies, fieldworkLaboratories, hospitals, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, private research companiesHospitals, biotech firms, research institutions

Research Biologists typically hold higher degrees and focus on designing experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings. Laboratory Technicians support research by performing routine tests, preparing samples, and maintaining lab equipment. Both roles are essential in research settings but differ in responsibilities, education, and scope of work.

Are research biologists in high demand?

Research biologists are in moderate demand, especially in fields like healthcare, environmental science, and biotechnology. Employment growth is expected to be steady, with opportunities increasing for those with advanced degrees and specialized skills such as laboratory techniques and data analysis.

How much do research biologists make?

Research biologists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $66,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn over $90,000 annually. Many research biologists work in labs, fieldwork, or academic settings, often requiring strong analytical skills and familiarity with scientific tools.

What job categories do people searching Research Biologist jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Biologist jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Biologist jobs in WI?

For Research Biologist jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Research Biologist job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,653 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Cancer Radiation Biologist

Wisconsin

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:FacultyEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Assistant ProfessorJob Summary:

The Department of Human Oncology (DHO) at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health is a seeking cancer research specialist at the Assistant, Associate, or Professor level to establish laboratory research programs in cancer biology and/or radiation biology. The successful candidate will join the department on or after July 1, 2027. The desired candidate will hold an MD, PhD, or MD/PhD degree, and have research interests broadly related to the biology of cancer. Oncology focus areas may include radiation biology, cell signaling, genetics, DNA damage and repair, angiogenesis, cancer therapeutics, cellular and molecular response to cancer therapy, stem cell biology, molecular prognostic markers, cell cycle control, stress response and others. In addition to research and teaching activities, this candidate will also participate in graduate student and postdoctoral training. Clinical practice opportunities also exist for candidates with interest and with the appropriate background.

The Department of Human Oncology is an interdisciplinary department of the School of Medicine and Public Health at the University of Wisconsin, with missions of teaching, research and radiation oncology-related practice directed toward the detection, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of human malignant diseases. The DHO is a "bridging" department that fosters excellence in basic, translational and clinical research, housing basic scientists, physicians, physician-scientists and physicists. DHO faculty members are also members of the University of Wisconsin Paul P Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center. The successful candidate will also participate in professional, public, and university service.

This position has been identified as a position of trust with access to vulnerable populations.The selected candidate will be required to pass an initial caregiver check to be eligible for employment under the Wisconsin Caregiver Law and every four years.

Applicants for this position will be considered for the following titles Assistant Professor, Associate Professor or Professor. The title is determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Teach medical students, residents, and fellows

  • Participate in administrative and committee work to support the clinical and scholarly missions of UW Health and the School of Medicine and Public Health. An essential part of these duties will be working in a collegial relationship with other faculty members

Department:

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Human Oncology

The Department of Human Oncology (DHO) at the University of Wisconsin is dedicated to advancing the field of radiation oncology through excellence in education, research, and patient care. We are committed to training the next generation of leaders-including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapy professionals-while conducting innovative research that drives progress in cancer treatment. Our team is equally devoted to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to individuals affected by cancer.

Compensation:

Negotiable, 12 month

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage and the SMPH Academic Staff Benefits Flyer

Required Qualifications:
  • For participation in clinical duties, applicants must have or be able to obtain medical licensure in Wisconsin without restriction

  • research interests broadly related to the biology of cancer

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Preferred experience in Oncology focus areas may include: radiation biology, cell signaling, genetics, DNA damage and repair, angiogenesis, cancer therapeutics, cellular and molecular response to cancer therapy, stem cell biology, molecular prognostic markers, cell cycle control, stress response, tumor immunology, theranostics, effects of the microbiomeand others.

  • For an appointment at Associate Professor or Professor rank on tenure track, candidates will meet criteria established by the department and as outlined in the UW Divisional Committee guidelines for promotion or appointment to Associate or Professor on the tenure track.

Education:
  • MD, PhD, or MD/PhD degree

How to Apply:

For the best experience completing your application, we recommend using Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.

To apply for this position, please click on the "I am a current employee" button or "I am not a current employee" button under Apply Now. You will be prompted to upload the following documents:

  • Cover Letter

  • Resume

Important: The application has only one attachment field. Upload the following documents in that field, either as a single combined file or as multiple files in the same upload area.

Applicants are to submit a cover letter and resume detailing their training and experience relating to the required and preferred qualifications referenced above. The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process. We will notify selected applicants to participate further in the selection process directly. References will be requested of final candidates. All applicants will be notified after the search is complete and a candidate has been selected.

The deadline for assuring full consideration is July 15, 2026; however, the position will remain open and applications may be considered until the position is filled.

Please note that the earliest possible start date is July 1, 2027. No start date prior to July 1, 2027 can be accommodated, and the appointment would begin on or after this date in accordance with institutional and onboarding timelines.

Contact Information:

Kirsten Gragg, kgragg@wisc.edu, 608-265-3357

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.