Recruiting for Oncology: Top US Trends

Over the past decade, the oncology recruitment landscape has transformed dramatically, largely due to breakthroughs in cell and gene therapies, targeted therapies, and immuno-oncology. So, how do you identify the top candidates in the rapidly evolving oncology market?

The oncology research market

Where are the top oncology-focused candidates based? The answer still lies in the US.

The oncology market remains a multi-billion-dollar industry—now projected to reach over $400 billion globally by 2028. While the US continues to account for the largest share of global oncology spending, new growth areas are emerging beyond traditional pharmaceutical giants. Precision medicine, gene therapy, and combination treatments are at the forefront of the sector, and candidates with expertise in these areas are in high demand.

Top pharmaceutical companies for oncology treatments remain industry leaders, including Roche, Bristol Myers Squibb, Merck, and Novartis. However, a significant portion of innovation in the oncology space is now happening in smaller biotech firms, academic institutions, and hospital research programs.

Where to find the best oncology talent

Best US universities for oncology research

Top universities continue to lead the way in cancer research, with Harvard, MIT, Stanford, University of California–San Francisco, and Johns Hopkins taking center stage. In fact, academic research collaborations are increasingly becoming the foundation for novel therapeutic targets and even new clinical trials. It is now common practice for new oncology drugs to receive their first validation in an academic lab before moving into clinical trials, underscoring the vital role these institutions play.

Best US hospitals for oncology research

When it comes to hospitals, the best US institutions for oncology research remain consistent, including University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, and Johns Hopkins. These hospitals are not just treating cancer—they are actively shaping the future of oncology through clinical trials, patient care innovations, and robust research funding.

Best US biotech hotspots for oncology research

The importance of biotech hubs cannot be overstated, and cities such as San Francisco, Boston, New York, and the Research Triangle (North Carolina) are increasingly critical in the talent search for oncology professionals. The influx of venture capital, innovative start-ups, and research partnerships create an environment that nurtures innovation, collaboration, and growth, making them ideal locations for top-tier oncology candidates.

The oncology recruitment landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years, and staying competitive requires a deep understanding of emerging trends and areas of innovation. As the market becomes increasingly specialized, securing top oncology talent is more competitive than ever.