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Research Volunteer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician ... Volunteering at Dana-Farber is a rewarding and enriching experience. Dana-Farber staff, donors, and ...

We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician ... Volunteering at Dana-Farber is a rewarding and enriching experience. Dana-Farber staff, donors, and ...

Detail oriented and research heavy * Has a far-reaching impact -- improving the lives of thousands Here's what one of our volunteers has to say about volunteering with One Degree: I like connecting ...

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Research Volunteer information

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$8

$19

$33

How much do research volunteer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for research volunteer in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research volunteer?

Research volunteers are individuals who offer their time and skills to assist in research projects without monetary compensation. They may help with tasks such as data collection, literature reviews, laboratory work, or community outreach, depending on the project's needs. Research volunteers play a critical role in supporting scientific studies and gaining practical experience, often in academic, medical, or nonprofit settings. Volunteering in research can be a valuable opportunity for those interested in learning more about a specific field and contributing to meaningful discoveries.

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

To thrive as a Research Volunteer, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and foundational knowledge in the relevant research field, often supported by coursework or academic experience. Familiarity with data collection tools, survey platforms, and basic statistical software like SPSS or Excel is usually required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and contribute to evolving research projects. These skills ensure accurate data management, meaningful contributions to research outcomes, and smooth integration within research teams.

What are some common challenges research volunteers face when integrating with established research teams?

Research Volunteers often join teams that already have established workflows and communication styles, which can make it challenging to quickly adapt and contribute effectively. Navigating unfamiliar research methodologies, learning new software or lab equipment, and understanding project-specific protocols are typical hurdles. Building rapport with team members and proactively seeking feedback can help overcome these challenges and lead to a more fulfilling and productive volunteering experience.

What is the difference between Research Volunteer vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch VolunteerResearch Assistant
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required; some roles may prefer relevant coursework or degreesUsually requires a bachelor's degree in a related field; some positions may need additional certifications
Work EnvironmentOften unpaid, flexible, and volunteer-based settings such as labs, clinics, or community projectsPaid position in research labs, universities, or institutions with structured schedules
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, academic institutions, research organizationsUniversities, research institutes, government agencies

Research volunteers typically assist with research activities without formal compensation and may have fewer qualifications. Research assistants are paid roles requiring relevant education and often involve more responsibilities. Both roles support research projects but differ mainly in compensation, credentials, and job structure.

More about Research Volunteer jobs

What cities are hiring for Research Volunteer jobs?

Cities with the most Research Volunteer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs?

The most popular types of Research jobs are:

What states have the most Research Volunteer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Research Volunteer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Research Volunteer job openings in the United States 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 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Part-time

Re-posted 22 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 PairWISE Program is a long-term peer mentor program designed to provide ongoing, virtual support for caregivers of pediatric patients who are dealing with a cancer or blood disorder diagnosis for the first time by matching them with a formally trained volunteer mentor whose child also received treatment at Dana-Farber.
PairWISE volunteer mentors may include parents, guardians, other adult caregivers of pediatric patients. Mentors are trained by PairWISE staff to provide one-on-one support to other caregivers (mentees).
Mentors can only communicate with their mentees through virtual means of communication (i.e. phone calls, text, email, and/or video calls). In-person and/or social meetings are outside the scope of this program's guidelines and the volunteer's role.
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.
Volunteering at Dana-Farber is a rewarding and enriching experience. Dana-Farber staff, donors, and volunteers all work toward a common goal of defeating cancer. As a supplemental resource for patients and families, volunteers who work at Dana-Farber are closely linked to this mission, as are those who volunteer at events that raise essential funds to support it. Volunteers are committed and reliable people who make a very real difference, everywhere they work.
Goal: Caregivers of patients (mentees) will feel supported in navigating the medical system, aware of possible resources, and less isolated in their child's illness experience. Mentees will experience decreased anxiety, greater sense of control, and increased satisfaction in their overall experience of patient family-centered care. Mentors will provide insight, guidance, and empathy from the perspective of someone who has walked a similar path and can relate to their child's treatment and illness experience.
Activities
  • Provide a reliable and safe space for your mentee(s) to ask questions and express their emotions
  • Listen to the concerns and challenges your mentee(s) share with you
  • Offer a calm, empathetic, and supportive presence
  • Be flexible and sensitive to the unique needs of your mentee(s) and their families, with attention to cultural, religious, and personal differences
  • Discuss symptoms and/or side effects that your mentee(s) child experienced
  • Talk about what to expect from surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other treatments
  • Discuss the challenges of caregiving for a child with significant medical needs
  • Identify supportive resources and available programs
  • Discuss how to communicate their child's diagnosis and treatment plan with their child, siblings, and other loved ones, etc.
  • Talk about issues your child(ren) faced given their age/developmental stage during treatment
  • Discuss the impact of their child's diagnosis on your mentee's family as whole - e.g., siblings, partner/spouse, extended family, etc.
  • Discuss workplace issues - e.g., advocating for remote work, reducing work hours, etc.
  • Provide insight related to issues unique to survivorship
  • Maintain confidentiality at all times
  • Respond in a timely manner to PairWISE program administrator's outreach regarding matches with mentees

Limitations
  • Do not give medical advice, opinions, or assumptions regarding a patient's illness, diagnosis, or treatment options.
  • Volunteers should refer patients to their physician if they have questions about their current treatment plan, protocol, and medications.

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 equally committed to diversifying our faculty, staff, and volunteers. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

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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