There seem to be a number of articles on the web that deal with this topic, the requirements in place and the steps that need to be taken in order to find work as a cancer researcher. Articles that deal with identifying the job descript
ion for such work, the education it requires, etc.
The article linked below is a quick read on the subject, but seems to cover the essentials of what seems to be needed to prepare for and qualify for such a job in a research lab, university setting, etc.
As one might expect, it's work that requires a substantial background in advanced education, in particular with a specialty in one of the biological or medical sciences, but also with in-depth training in communication skills. (For writing all those scientific papers that report the results of such research).
A few highlights from the article:
"Cancer Researchers typically have a medical doctoral degree (M.D.) or a Ph.D." (Some have both, which improves their employability) (Such a joint M.D.-Ph.D. degree "normally takes 7 to 8 years to complete," the article says)
"The majority of these professionals work in research labs at hospitals and universities."
"Some are also hired by corporations in the private sector and work for biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies."Also:
"Some Cancer Researchers spend a lot of their time writing grants and proposals for fundraising in order for their institution to continue its researching efforts."Other:
"The research sector is expected to grow faster than average at approximately 40% throughout the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics."and:
"Salary and wages depends on the sector a Cancer Researcher works in, with drug merchants paying an average of approximately $90,600 annually. Education institutes pay the lowest wages at approximately $52,800."
"According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical scientists was $84,810 in May 2018."Not mentioned is an incentive that some who enter this field might find to be a very compelling one. Namely, that they might actually be doing work which could contribute to the discovery of a cure. And thus the medical immortality that might become attached to their names, if they were to succeed in doing so. Becoming the Louis Pasteur of cancer might indeed be a strong motivation for some to become a cancer researcher.
So, a job with demanding entry requirements, and needing a highly advanced background to perform the duties involved, but one that is likely a satisfying one for most who do it.
https://www.becomeopedia.com/cancer-researcher/