Overview
Numerous cancer research centers conduct clinical trials, gene and biological testing and drug therapy protocols around the world. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, although competition is heavy for research positions, those with advanced degrees are likely to find sufficient opportunities. Scientists with varying levels of expertise often collaborate on projects as they share a common goal.
Fellowships
Fellowships and internships are available at cancer research centers such as the National Cancer Institute and the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The positions serve in a training capacity to act as assistants to the degreed professionals while students finish their educations. Various levels of fellowships are open to everyone interested in cancer research, from high school to post-doctorate levels.
Research
Research and assistant research staff positions are open at cancer research centers for students who have earned a master’s or PhD in a variety of life science arenas. Opportunities in cancer research receiving the most attention and funding through the National Institute’s of Health National Cancer Institute include research on prostate, breast and lung cancer and clinical trials.
Administrative
All cancer centers staff complete administrative offices that utilize professionals with business management degrees of varying levels. Two and four-year degrees in business with an emphasis in healthcare are required for most clerical and human resource positions. A healthcare administrator typically needs a master’s in health administration. Other positions in a cancer research center include grant writers, accounting professionals and attorneys.
Nursing
Professionals with nursing degrees are sought after in cancer research centers, especially those that perform clinical trials with patients. Nurses work with patients undergoing new treatment protocols as well as developing their own research projects. They learn to translate research into patient care and assist with developing new delivery systems. Many nurses employed at research hospitals find advancement opportunities by continuing their education and earning a master’s degree in clinical research or oncology.
Medical
Physicians serve in a scientific role in the research centers to conduct clinical trials. They provide the protocols to test subjects and monitor the results. A medical degree (M.D.) with a PhD or master’s in biotechnology, clinical research or pharmaceuticals is required to hold one of the practical patient focused positions. Physician scientists conduct research for treating, preventing and diagnosing cancer. They investigate new surgical techniques, gene therapies and experiment with various pharmaceuticals.
Teachers
Many cancer research centers are located within the structures of medical schools and universities. Doctorate degrees are required of instructors who train students in the course curriculum as well as guide them through their own research projects. Professors at research universities oversee fellowship and intern programs and publish their own research papers.
References
Biospace.com: Biotech and Pharmaceutical News & Jobs
National Cancer Institute
National Institutes of Health
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
