Careers at the ICR
We provide exceptional opportunities for the best scientists, clinicians, and professional and administrative staff, and excellent academic and recreational facilities at our two London sites, in Chelsea and Sutton.
As a world-leading research organisation, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, offers a fantastic working environment, great opportunities for career development and the chance to make a real difference for cancer patients. We aim to recruit and develop the best – with positions for outstanding scientists and clinicians, and the most talented professional or administrative staff.
Different types of positions at the ICR
Our aim is to attract the best people in cancer research. We offer an excellent working environment, competitive salaries and good staff benefits. There is a range of career paths at the ICR, in scientific research, research support, and professional and administrative positions.
We offer a variety of professional and administrative roles in areas such as facilities, fundraising, communication, IT, human resources and academic services.
Our professional services teams are tailored to meet the needs of a research organisation, and many of our employees in these teams have backgrounds in science, or experience of working with scientists and clinicians.
Our specialist finance team is experienced at dealing with research grants, and staff within our Business and Innovation Office have the expertise to negotiate complex collaborative agreements between the ICR and pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
We're recruiting the top figures in cancer research to work in a vibrant and confident culture that consistently produces world-changing research.
To become part of our career faculty, you will be an established senior researcher and have the proven leadership skills and international research credibility to direct major scientific programmes, and build and manage a motivated and high-performing scientific team.
Our culture emphasises the importance of collaborative working to address the big challenges in cancer research, and you will be expected to form part of the wider ICR team. You will also recruit and develop the research leaders of the future.
To join the ICR you’ll be a talented scientist looking for the next step after your initial postdoctoral studies. You’ll be ready to start leading a team independently under the mentorship of a leading senior scientist.
Personal fellowships, funded by a variety of medical research agencies and charities, are the usual route for new leaders to join us in areas in which we are traditionally very strong, such as cancer biology. Success as a fellow will put you on a fast-track route to gaining a long-term career at the ICR.
To join us you will have, or be in the process of gaining, a personal fellowship from one of the major national or international funding bodies, such as the Wellcome Trust, Cancer Research UK, one of the Research Councils, the Royal Society or the National Institute for Health Research.
For PhD graduates looking for a postdoctoral role. We offer a competitive salary, rigorous training, many opportunities for professional development, and an open and inclusive working culture.
We offer clinicians a variety of working opportunities, from working as a postdoctoral researcher in one of our eight scientific divisions, to carrying out independent research as a clinician scientist or clinical research fellow, to heading a specialised research team. We also offer clinicians the opportunity to develop their specialty, through a variety of taught or research-based postgraduate degrees.
Collaboration between scientists and clinicians is essential for the translational nature of the cutting-edge research carried out at the ICR. It gets new treatments to patients more quickly, and allows our researchers to learn from experience in the clinic.
Some of our current vacancies
Head of Biology and Director, Centre for Target Validation (Group Leader)
Under the leadership of Dr Olivia Rossanese, we are seeking to appoint a Team Leader to join The Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery (CCDD) as The Head of Biology and Director of the Centre for Target Validation. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have in-depth knowledge and recent experience in an area of cancer biology relevant to oncology drug discovery. Leadership experience of drug discovery within, or in collaboration with, the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry as evidenced by publication and/or successful commercial projects. Along with completing the online application form, you will be asked to attach the following documents and failure to do so will mean your application cannot be considered on this occasion: · Full CV · Lists of major publications, achievements, research grants, distinctions. · A PDF of a maximum of five key publications, or other research outputs (e.g. patents) that best demonstrate previous productivity · You must also complete the personal statement section of the application form in the format of a covering letter including the names and contact details of three academic referees Department/Directorate Information: The Division of Cancer Therapeutic's mission is to develop personalised medicines by translating information from the cancer genome and cancer biology into drugs for patient benefit. We implement innovative drug discovery technologies, discover novel mechanism-based drugs, and develop these as rapidly as possible from the laboratory through to hypothesis-testing early clinical trials We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Dr Olivia Rossanese, Email [email protected]
Group Leader in In Vivo Cancer Modelling
The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) seeks to appoint a Group Leader in In Vivo Cancer Modelling to play a pivotal role in advancing our cutting-edge cancer research. The position is based at the newly established Centre for In Vivo Modelling (CIVM), part of the Division of Molecular Pathology on our Sutton campus. We welcome applications at both the Career Development Faculty and Career Faculty levels. Key Requirements The successful candidate will employ genetic and humanised mouse models of cancer to tackle fundamental and translational questions in haemato-oncology and/or solid tumour oncology. In addition to leading a successful research group, they will expand the CIVM's research capabilities and foster productive collaborations with other groups and centres at the ICR, thus promoting in vivo modelling by integrating it into multidisciplinary projects and initiatives. Applicants must hold a higher degree and have a proven, internationally recognised track record of leading research in in vivo modelling and advanced mouse genetics, demonstrated by high-quality publications and significant funding success. For more junior candidates, an outstanding postdoctoral track record in cancer research, coupled with a compelling research vision leveraging advanced genetic mouse models and clear potential to secure external funding, is essential. As part of your online application you will be required to upload your full CV which will pre-populate your application form, you will also be asked to attach the following documents and failure to do so will mean your application cannot be considered on this occasion: Lists of major publications, achievements, research grants, distinctions. Research plan (five to six pages outlining your current research interests and research programme for the next 5 years) A PDF of a maximum of five key publications, or other research outputs (e.g. patents) that best demonstrate previous productivity You must also complete the personal statement section of the application form in the format of a covering letter including the names and contact details of three academic referees Department/Directorate Information: The ICR is one of the world’s most influential cancer research institutions, with an outstanding track record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. In addition to being one of the UK’s leading higher education institutions for research quality and impact, the ICR is consistently ranked among the world’s most successful for industry collaboration. As a member institution of the University of London, we also provide postgraduate higher education of international distinction. One of the ICR’s key research strategies is to defeat cancer by viewing it as a dynamic ecosystem. We aim to solidify our expertise in state-of-the-art in vivo cancer models to probe these complex cancer ecosystems, discover their underlying biology, and identify new therapeutic targets. The post holder will significantly contribute to driving these strategic priorities. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. If you would like to informally discuss this position, please contact Professor Kamil R. Kranc ([email protected]), Director of the Centre for In Vivo Modelling, or Professor Chris Jones ([email protected]), Interim Head of the Division of Molecular Pathology at the ICR.
Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Mechanisms and Regulation of pre-mRNA Splicing
Under the leadership of Professor Vlad Pena, we are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Training Fellow with a strong interest in the structural biology of RNA-protein complexes. The primary objective of this project is to elucidate the structural mechanisms underlying key regulatory events in RNA splicing. The successful candidate will focus on reconstituting spliceosomes involved in this process and determining their structures using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Comprehensive training in specialized techniques will be provided. Our laboratory offers regular access to cutting-edge structural biology facilities, including recombinant protein expression, purification systems, mammalian cell bioreactors, advanced electron microscopy (Glacios and Titan Krios), high-performance GPU computing clusters, mass spectrometry, and both preparative and analytical biochemistry tools. More detailed information about our research, can be found on our webpage. For general information on Post Doc's at The ICR can be found here. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have a PhD (or equivalent) in structural biology and demonstrate strong expertise in the biochemistry of macromolecular complexes. While experience in RNA biology, the structural study of RNA-protein complexes, and cryo-EM is advantageous, we encourage applications from all talented scientists with a passion for this field. The ICR has a workforce agreement stating that Postdoctoral Training Fellows can only be employed for up to 7 years as PDTF at the ICR, providing total postdoctoral experience (including previous employment at this level elsewhere) does not exceed 10 years Department/Directorate Information: The Division of Structural Biology is located at the ICR site in the picturesque Chelsea district of London, offering a vibrant scientific and cultural atmosphere and excellent opportunities for both personal and professional growth. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Prof Vlad Pena at [email protected]
Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Bioinformatics
Professor Johann de Bono’s translational research team is seeking a talented Post-doctoral Research Fellow. The programme focuses on integrating multi-omic and clinical data, including single cell and spatial data as well as hyperplex immunocytochemical data, to help develop novel therapeutic strategies against cancer. For general information on Post Doc's at The ICR can be found here. Key Requirements The successful candidate will be highly motivated and possess robust bioinformatic, scientific, and analytical skills, with a proactive approach to learning and applying new techniques, including artificial intelligence. Primary responsibilities will involve working with integrated datasets including clinical trial datasets comprising next-generation sequencing data and other applications relevant to the analysis of DNA and RNA sequencing, as well as protein assays. Familiarity with cancer genomics is desirable. The ICR has a workforce agreement stating that Postdoctoral Training Fellows can only be employed for up to 7 years as PDTF at the ICR, providing total postdoctoral experience (including previous employment at this level elsewhere) does not exceed 10 years Department/Directorate Information: Professor Johann de Bono is a world leader in anticancer drug development, biomarker studies, and prostate cancer care. His team conducts biomarker-driven clinical and translational research to accelerate the development of novel cancer therapies and improve understanding of cancer biology, drug sensitivity and resistance. His team has driven major advances in cancer care through early and late stage trials, and he has led pivotal phase III trials of several prostate cancer drugs including abiraterone, cabazitaxel, enzalutamide, lutetium PSMA and olaparib. His team consists of basic, translational and clinical scientists, and is embedded in a vibrant world-class research environment. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Dr Wei Yuan via email on [email protected] Due to the high volumes of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close the advert before the published closing date, once we have received a sufficient number of applications. Therefore, we advise that you to submit your application, as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Higher Scientific Officer, Cancer Biomarkers Team
There is an urgent need to expand the use of histopathology-based techniques to support our drug discovery/development activities. A Higher Scientific Officer is required to join a team involved in the expansion of the facilities for histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and multiplex immunofluorescence to support studies on prognostic, diagnostic and pharmacodynamic markers of response. The post holder will support the day-to-day operations, offer histological expertise, accurately record and communicate lab results and train team members to enhance their skills and ensure successful project outcomes. They will also ensure scientific work is accurate and efficient, comply with health and safety regulations, and write risk assessments and standard operating procedures. Key Requirements Candidates must have significant expertise in a range of histopathology techniques including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning of both paraffin embedded and frozen samples, automated immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence and antibody optimisation. They should possess a first degree (or equivalent) in biomedical science, molecular biology/pharmacology or related subject. An understanding of GCP would be an advantage. Department/Directorate Information Professor Johann de Bono’s team conducts biomarker-driven clinical and translational research to accelerate the development of novel cancer therapies and improve understanding of cancer biology, drug sensitivity and resistance. His team focuses on improving prostate cancer care that have led pivotal phase III trials of several prostate cancer drugs including abiraterone, cabazitaxel, enzalutamide and olaparib as well more recently ipatasertib and lutetium-PSMA. His team consists of basic and clinical scientists, which is embedded in a vibrant world-class research environment. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Mateus Crespo via email on [email protected] Due to the high volumes of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close the advert before the published closing date, once we have received a sufficient number of applications. Therefore, we advise that you to submit your application, as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Chemistry, Targeted Protein Degradation
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Training Fellow within the Targeted Protein Degradation team to support projects and drug discovery efforts within the ICR's Centre for Protein Degradation. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the post-holder will use in-house biological and pharmacokinetic data and structural information to design new molecules and develop and execute synthetic routes. The candidate will develop their existing skills in organic chemistry, and learn or enhance their knowledge and experience in applied medicinal chemistry and chemical biology. The candidate will also be trained to use biochemical and cell-based assays to test the project compounds. For general information on Post Doc's at The ICR can be found here. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have a PhD in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry or a closely related discipline and have demonstrated experience of laboratory organic synthesis. They should have enthusiasm to work in a lab-based role in a multidisciplinary environment with the goal of discovering improved cancer therapeutics, and be motivated to develop their skills in medicinal chemistry. The ICR has a workforce agreement stating that Postdoctoral Training Fellows can only be employed for up to 7 years as a PDTF at the ICR, providing total postdoctoral experience (including previous employment at this level elsewhere) does not exceed 10 years Department/Directorate Information: The CPD's mission is to advance and deploy Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD) approaches to study cancer biology and develop breakthrough cancer treatments. The CPD programmes span across three main research themes: PROteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs), Molecular Glue Degraders (MGDs), and Enabling novel E3 ubiquitin ligases. The highly collaborative Centre is linked with the Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery (CCDD) and is designed to leverage broad expertise and capabilities at the ICR and our hospital partner, The Royal Marsden, to develop protein degraders from initial concept to clinic, both within and beyond the ICR. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Prof. Zoran Rankovic via email: [email protected].
Recruitment Administrator
Are you an organised and proactive administrator looking to make a difference in a world-class organisation? The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) is seeking a Recruitment Administrator to join our HR Operations team, supporting the recruitment processes that help us attract and hire exceptional talent to drive forward our ground breaking cancer research. The Role: As a Recruitment Administrator, you will provide a high-quality, customer-focused service, ensuring that all aspects of the recruitment process run smoothly. You will play a vital role in supporting managers and candidates while maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with employment legislation. Key Responsibilities: Coordinate the administration of recruitment campaigns, including job postings, interview arrangements, and pre-employment checks. Maintain accurate candidate records within our Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and ensure all onboarding activities are completed efficiently. Serve as the first point of contact for recruitment queries from hiring managers and candidates. Draft and issue contracts of employment, ensuring all supporting documentation is complete. Liaise with external recruitment partners, job boards, and Occupational Health services. Contribute to process improvements and support HR projects as required. About You: To excel in this role, you will be a skilled administrator with a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities. You will have experience in a recruitment or HR setting and be confident using systems and databases to maintain accurate records. Department/Directorate Information: The Recruitment Team is an integral part of the HR Operations function, alongside the Reward and Information Team (including Pensions) and two Advisory teams. We recognise that talented, passionate individuals are the driving force behind ICR’s success. The Recruitment Team is dedicated to attracting and selecting outstanding talent to support the ICR’s mission, providing a seamless and professional experience for candidates and hiring managers alike. By delivering both operational and strategic recruitment support, we ensure that the right people are in place across the ICR to drive our research and innovation forward. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. Due to the high volumes of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close the advert before the published closing date, once we have received a sufficient number of applications. Therefore, we advise that you to submit your application, as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Software Engineer
Under the leadership of Prof. Axel Behrens (ICR) and Prof.Kalyan Talluri (Imperial), we are seeking to appoint a Software Engineer to join the CRUK Convergence Science Centre (CSC) to develop and maintain a patient app platform. This innovative project is a collaborative effort between the clinical trials unit at the ICR/Royal Marsden and Imperial College Business School, fully supported by the CSC. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have strong database and programming skills, along with the ability to maintain production applications. The candidate should have a strong desire and capability to pick up new technologies and frameworks in the software and health areas. The post holder will undertake project management and collaborate with clinicians, researchers and other software developers. Department/Directorate Information The CRUK Convergence Science Centre is a research initiative funded by Cancer Research UK (CRUK) that brings together experts from different scientific disciplines to tackle complex challenges in cancer research. It is a partnership between The Institute of Cancer Research ICR and Imperial College London, combining expertise from a wide range of fields, such as biology, engineering, physics, chemistry, and data science, to develop innovative solutions for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. The Centre focuses on convergence science, an approach that integrates diverse scientific perspectives to accelerate discovery and innovation. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the Centre aims to translate cutting-edge research into practical applications, particularly in areas such as precision medicine, new technologies for cancer treatment, and patient-centred healthcare solutions. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Dr Arnaud Legrand [email protected].