Many people decide to become specialists in oncology after losing a friend or loved one to cancer.  There are several careers that the doctor specializing in oncology can choose from.  The median salary for an oncologist in the US is $250,000 if one enters a private practice as opposed to academic medicine.  Academic careers average around $150,00 to $175,000. 

Private Practice vs. Academic Medicine

Oncologists who wish to engage in pure research often find themselves in the academic medicine career path.  Academic medicine is also a good start down the path of a career in a private practice, where much higher salaries are possible.  Private practice may also be the path of choice for those who prefer the “bench-to-bedside” hands-on approach.  Usually three to four years in academic medicine is necessary before progressing to private practice careers.  Those who choose to stay in academic medicine will be able to conduct pure research studies and enjoy less working hours than their private practice counterparts. 

Academic Medicine

In order to pursue a career in academic medicine, the oncologist must be a jack-of-all-trades.  They must learn how to get grants, write scientific papers and the usual pursuits of oncology such as research and clinical trials.  Grant and paper writing are both necessary to sustain a livelihood when one relies on pure academics and as such those looking to pursue a career in academic medicine would be well-advised to take professional courses in both grant writing and paper writing if they do not feel that their education sufficiently provided for these items. 

Hospital Oncology Specialist

This career will appeal to those who enjoy the hands-on approach.  As with all medical professions, demand for oncologists in hospitals is high.  You may even be able to join up with an organization that specializes in oncology rather than a general hospital.  In any case, the world is literally your oyster if you have an academic medicine background coupled with an education in oncology. 

Pharmaceutical Company Consultant

This post will frequently see you involved in research and development of drugs intended for use in fighting cancer.  Sales and management positions are usually available within pharma companies for oncologists as well.  Higher up positions in pharma companies are usually extremely well-paying, but are reserved for oncologists who have spearheaded major breakthroughs or have extensive experience both in academic and private practice. 

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