Oncology Nurse Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the medical field, the focus on oncology nurse researchers has never been sharper.

As advancements in cancer treatment and research continue, there’s an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can contribute to, refine, and safeguard our knowledge in this complex field.

But what’s really expected from an oncology nurse researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the true essence of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of oncology research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable oncology nurse researcher job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Oncology Nurse Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Oncology Nurse Researchers are responsible for conducting research in the field of oncology, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and advancing the science of oncology nursing.

They work closely with patients, families, and multidisciplinary team members in both clinical and research settings.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Designing and conducting oncology nursing research studies
• Applying for and managing research funding grants
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams
• Evaluating and implementing evidence-based practice in oncology nursing
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends, outcomes, and other findings in cancer care
• Disseminating research findings through professional publications and presentations
• Recruiting and consenting study participants, ensuring ethical and respectful treatment
• Monitoring patient responses during clinical trials and adjusting care plans as necessary
• Maintaining strict patient confidentiality and adhering to research ethics and protocols
• Keeping up to date with the latest developments and advancements in oncology nursing

 

Oncology Nurse Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Oncology Nurse Researcher to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting research, documenting findings and contributing to the enhancement of patient care and treatment plans in the field of oncology.

The role requires a deep understanding of oncology nursing, patient care, clinical trials and a strong commitment to improving the lives of patients with cancer.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct and participate in clinical trials and research related to oncology nursing
• Analyze data and present findings in professional forums and publications
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement effective patient care strategies
• Ensure all research activities comply with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising for research projects
• Participate in the development and review of protocols for patient care
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all research information
• Stay updated with latest advancements in oncology nursing research

 

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) with current licensure
• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Master’s or Doctorate preferred
• Previous experience in clinical research or oncology nursing
• Strong knowledge of oncology, chemotherapy, and related treatments
• Experience with data collection, analysis, and reporting
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work well in a team and manage multiple priorities
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail

 

Benefits

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Oncology Nurse Researcher
• Work Environment: Hospital or Research Institute setting. Some travel may be required for conferences and professional development.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Nursing Research.
• Salary: Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Oncology Nurse Researcher Do?

Oncology Nurse Researchers typically work in hospitals, medical research centers, universities, and pharmaceutical companies.

Their primary role is to conduct research about cancer and its treatment methods.

They are responsible for designing and implementing research studies related to oncology, the study of cancer.

This includes formulating research questions, developing research protocols, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting the results.

Oncology Nurse Researchers work closely with other healthcare professionals, including oncologists, pharmacists, and other nurses, to develop best practices in cancer care.

They also work with patients and their families, providing education about cancer treatments and assisting in the management of symptoms and side effects.

Their research often forms the basis for improvements in cancer treatment and patient care.

They may present their findings at conferences, publish in scientific journals, or use their research to influence healthcare policy and practice.

Oncology Nurse Researchers may also be involved in clinical trials, where they monitor the effects of new drugs or treatment methods on cancer patients.

They are responsible for ensuring the safety of the trial participants, and for accurately reporting the results of the trial.

In addition to their research duties, Oncology Nurse Researchers may also have teaching responsibilities, training the next generation of oncology nurses and sharing their expertise with the wider healthcare community.

 

Oncology Nurse Researcher Qualifications and Skills

Oncology Nurse Researchers have a unique combination of clinical, research, and analytical skills that allow them to contribute significantly to advancements in cancer treatment and care, including:

• Exceptional understanding of oncology, pathology, and medical terminology related to cancer to carry out effective research.
• Experience in clinical nursing practices, specifically in oncology, providing a practical perspective to research activities.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to design and conduct research, analyze complex data, and synthesize findings into actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills to present research findings to various stakeholders, including doctors, nurses, patients, and medical executives.
• Attention to detail and precision in carrying out research studies, ensuring adherence to protocols, and maintaining accurate records.
• Collaboration skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including physicians, other researchers, and medical staff.
• Patience and empathy to interact with patients participating in research studies, many of whom are undergoing treatment for serious illnesses.
• Knowledge of ethical and regulatory standards for medical research, ensuring that all activities comply with national and international guidelines.

 

Oncology Nurse Researcher Experience Requirements

Oncology Nurse Researchers need to begin their career journey as Registered Nurses (RNs), which requires earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Additionally, they are expected to gain experience working as an RN for at least 2 years, often in oncology settings, to understand the basic care procedures and challenges faced by patients with cancer.

During this period, they may also opt for additional certification from the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) to demonstrate their commitment to the field.

This certification requires a minimum of 1000 hours of oncology nursing practice.

For the specific role of Oncology Nurse Researcher, an advanced degree such as a Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing is typically required, with a focus on research methods and statistical analysis.

These advanced degrees often incorporate a significant amount of practical experience in conducting nursing research.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have participated in several research projects, and may be ready to take on roles of greater responsibility, such as principal investigator on a research study.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have a track record of published research and may be eligible for leadership roles in research institutions or academia.

 

Oncology Nurse Researcher Education and Training Requirements

An Oncology Nurse Researcher typically requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree as a starting point.

This degree program covers foundational areas of nursing and often includes clinical experiences to provide practical knowledge.

After obtaining a BSN, nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to earn their nursing license.

Once the license is obtained, nurses typically gain experience in general nursing care before moving into specialized oncology nursing.

It is beneficial to have a few years of experience working in oncology nursing before transitioning into a research role.

Continuing their education, many Oncology Nurse Researchers then pursue a Master’s Degree or Doctorate in Nursing Science.

These advanced degrees often allow for a focus on research methods and oncology-specific content, which will be particularly useful in the researcher role.

Certification in oncology nursing is not always required but is highly recommended.

The Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) offers various certifications, such as the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) certification, which validate the nurse’s knowledge and skills in the specialized field of oncology.

Oncology Nurse Researchers should also have a strong understanding of clinical trial procedures, medical terminology related to cancer, and the ethical considerations of oncology research.

They often participate in continuing education and professional development programs to stay updated on the latest advancements in cancer research and treatment.

 

Oncology Nurse Researcher Salary Expectations

An Oncology Nurse Researcher earns an average salary of $90,920 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary based on factors such as years of experience in the field, level of education, geographical location, and the organization they work for.

 

Oncology Nurse Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Oncology Nurse Researcher need?

In addition to clinical nursing skills, Oncology Nurse Researchers should have a strong understanding of research methodology, data analysis, and statistical methods.

They must be detail-oriented, able to work independently, and have excellent communication skills to effectively present findings and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

 

What educational background is required for an Oncology Nurse Researcher?

Oncology Nurse Researchers must have a nursing degree, either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s.

They usually need a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nursing or a related field to conduct independent research.

They must also have a valid nursing license and often require specialized certifications in oncology.

 

What should you look for in an Oncology Nurse Researcher resume?

Look for a strong educational background in nursing, especially advanced degrees in oncology or a related field.

Experience in clinical oncology nursing and research is crucial.

They should have knowledge of research principles and statistical analysis and have proven experience in scientific writing.

Certifications in oncology nursing or research nursing are valuable assets.

 

What qualities make a good Oncology Nurse Researcher?

Good Oncology Nurse Researchers are meticulous and detail-oriented, ensuring the accuracy and validity of their research.

They’re empathetic and patient, as they often work with cancer patients.

They’re also self-motivated and tenacious, as research can be a long and challenging process.

Strong communication skills are crucial, as they must present their findings effectively and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

 

Is it difficult to hire Oncology Nurse Researchers?

Hiring Oncology Nurse Researchers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

The candidate needs both clinical experience and research skills, which narrows down the pool of qualified candidates.

Offering competitive compensation, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive working environment can attract high-quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the realities of being an oncology nurse researcher.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not solely about conducting research in clinical settings.

It’s about creating better futures for cancer patients, one research study at a time.

With our definitive oncology nurse researcher job description template and practical examples, you’re now ready to forge ahead.

But why halt your momentum?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to producing precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every research study contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become an Oncology Nurse Researcher (Complete Guide)

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