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, research services and education and library 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.
Moving to the UK
We attract staff from all over the world. Find all the information you need to move to the United Kingdom to work with us.
Staff benefits
Find out more about the staff benefits we offer, including a competitive salary package, annual leave entitlements, and sports and social facilities.Some of our current vacancies
Research Group Leader, ICR Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit (ICR-CTSU)
Department/Directorate Information: Division of Clinical Studies - Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit (ICR-CTSU) The ICR-CTSU is a Cancer Research UK-funded, internationally recognised methodologist led clinical trials unit, providing cancer-focused clinical trial research expertise. We lead pioneering, efficient, high-quality, and impactful trials across the phases. Our expertise ranges from experimental medicine early phase studies exploring biological efficacy to trials which may deliver widespread change to routine practice, underpinned by applied methodology to drive forward clinical trial innovation. See our clinical trials Role Summary The Group Leader will lead a component of ICR-CTSU’s portfolio of clinical trials research. The post holder will join an existing faculty and seek to further develop and grow the portfolio in line with ICR-CTSU’s overall strategy; taking responsibility for a number of ongoing trials as well as the development of new trials. There will be the opportunity to develop and grow a team including the potential for a Postdoctoral Training Fellow and/ or a Trial Manager. We seek an experienced statistician / biostatistician with a strong research interest in clinical trials methodology and a passion for direct involvement in the oversight and leadership of academic clinical trials. The successful candidate will work closely with the Director of ICR-CTSU to further enhance the Unit’s internationally recognised strength in clinical trial design, conduct and analysis. The post holder will be expected to make a substantial independent intellectual contribution to clinical trials projects and be proactive in leading and contributing to broad initiatives that enhance the overall effectiveness of ICR-CTSU. The appointee will contribute to the overall scientific life of the ICR including the newly established ICR/Royal Marsden Hospital’s Centre for Trials and Population Data Science, by providing mentorship to more junior colleagues and acting as an academic leader. We seek an individual who will work closely and collaboratively with other faculty/Group Leaders at the ICR and with international/national key opinion leaders to extend the breadth and depth of ICR-CTSU’s biologically rich clinical trials portfolio. In partnership with clinical opinion leaders, this individual will generate research funds to conduct and deliver clinical trials research at the international forefront. Presentation at national and international conferences, production of top-quality research outputs and substantial professional contribution to wider clinical trial network bodies are expected. Enthusiasm for team-based science in a collaborative interdisciplinary environment is essential. The appointment will be based on track record and the ability and willingness to engage in team science. The successful appointee will have access to ICR’s successful PhD training programme and core facilities. Key Requirements Higher degree (MSc or PhD) in medical statistics/biostatistics or an allied field (e.g. public health, epidemiology, data science) with relevant work experience Significant experience as a clinical trials, medical statistician or bio-statistician within the academic or commercial sector; a blend of both would be highly desirable A desire to apply existing and novel statistical methods to the requirements of a diverse range of statistical problems A broad understanding of cancer research Ability to lead a Clinical Trials Unit based research group 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 and distinctions. A PDF of a maximum of five key publications, or other research outputs (e.g. patents) that best demonstrate previous productivity or a single document giving hyperlinks to these outputs. You must also complete the personal statement section of the application form in the format of a cover letter including the names and contact details of three academic referees Joining as a Group Leader, you will be given outstanding support to help you to continue to develop in your career. Along with a start-up package of funding, you will also have access to resources to establish your group, including support for recruiting key group members, such as PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. 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 Professor Emma Hall ([email protected])
Clinical Trials Programme Manager
The Institute of Cancer Research is looking for an experienced trialist to join the Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials & Statistics Unit (ICR-CTSU) as a Clinical Trials Programme Manager at its Sutton site in Surrey. ICR-CTSU runs a diverse portfolio of national and international phase III multi-centre randomised controlled trials, and phase II targeted treatment trials, with a special emphasis in breast, urological, lung and head and neck cancer treatments. The post offers an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and well-motivated senior trial manager with extensive experience of setting up and running multi-centre trials to work in a dynamic and supportive academic environment. The successful candidate will join the ICR-CTSU Management Group and responsibilities will include: The strategic oversight of a defined programme of research within the ICR-CTSU portfolio; The development and initiation of new trials; Providing operational oversight of dedicated trials teams to ensure successful trial delivery. Key Requirements Applicants should hold a first degree or equivalent level qualification in life science or health related subject and have an in depth understanding of the UK Clinical Trials Regulations, principles of Good Clinical Practice, Data Protection, Research Governance and the Human Tissue Act. Experience/knowledge of laboratory quality systems and procedures is highly desirable. Excellent interpersonal skills are required, as is the ability to work to high standards across a variety of tasks with constant regard to scientific and regulatory requirements. A proven track record in the planning, coordination and conduct of clinical trials within the NHS or academia, a CRO or a pharmaceutical company is essential. Additional information This is an office based role. Requests for hybrid working (splitting time between our Sutton site and home) may be considered following successful completion of key training and if the role allows. Flexible working options may be considered. 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 via Email on [email protected].
Group Leader - Cancer Health Data Sciences
The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and The Royal Marsden Hospital (RMH) invite applications for a Group Leader in Cancer Health Data Sciences. This is an exceptional opportunity for an outstanding researcher to establish an independent, internationally recognised research programme at the interface of cancer research, data science and artificial intelligence. The successful candidate will develop innovative approaches to analyse and integrate large-scale, multimodal health data to advance cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment stratification and therapeutic response. They will have access to an unrivalled clinical and research environment through the ICR–RMH partnership, including electronic health records, imaging, genomics and molecular profiling data generated through routine clinical care, clinical trials and epidemiological studies, as well as local and national health datasets. The appointment is intended to strengthen and complement existing expertise across clinical research, epidemiology, computational biology, imaging and genomics. We are seeking an ambitious and collaborative researcher with strong quantitative and computational skills, extensive experience in the analysis of complex health data, and a track record of delivering innovative research with translational impact. The post will be based within the Division of Cancer Genetics and Epidemiology at the ICR and will include an honorary appointment at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. In addition to leading an independent research programme, the successful candidate will contribute to the strategic development of cancer health data science across both institutions. This will include opportunities to engage with initiatives supported through the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), alongside other institutional, charitable and externally funded programmes. The appointee will be expected to develop a strong externally funded research portfolio aligned with their scientific vision and to build productive collaborations across the ICR, RMH and the wider national and international cancer research community. The successful candidate must have: PhD (or equivalent) in relevant quantitative discipline (including, but not limited to, data science, epidemiology, biostatistics, health informatics, computer Strong foundation in quantitative methods and applied analytics. Strong understanding of data governance, privacy, and ethical considerations in health data science and AI. Strong programming and analytical skills (e.g., Python, R, SQL, JavaScript) and familiarity with modern data-science workflows. 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: Please find out more about our Genetics and Epidemiology division here. 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 Professor Richard Houlston [email protected] or Professor Montse Garcia-Closas via [email protected].
Computational Chemist
The Centre for Protein Degradation (CPD), led by Professor Zoran Rankovic, is a recently established centre at the ICR dedicated to discovering and developing novel cancer treatments through targeted protein degradation. The Centre brings together expertise in medicinal chemistry, structural biology, cell biology and computational science to design PROTACs, molecular glue degraders, and novel E3 ubiquitin ligase chemical probes, with the aim of developing breakthrough treatments for the benefit of cancer patients. Under the guidance of Dr Andrea Scarpino, we are looking to appoint a Computational Chemist to join the CPD and play a key role in applying and developing innovative computational chemistry methods to accelerate the design and discovery of novel protein degraders. The successful candidate will work in close collaboration with medicinal chemists, structural biologists and biologists within the Centre, contributing computational expertise across all stages of TPD drug discovery - from target evaluation and hit finding through to lead optimisation and candidate selection. About you The successful candidate must have a PhD in computational chemistry, cheminformatics or a related field, together with post-PhD experience applying computational chemistry methods for drug discovery. Familiarity with targeted protein degradation, including ternary complex and protein-protein interaction modelling, is highly desirable. What we offer A dynamic and supportive research environment Access to state-of-the-art facilities and professional development opportunities Collaboration with leading researchers in the field Competitive salary and pension We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion on the role, please contact Dr Andrea Scarpino via email at [email protected]
Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Cancer Stem Cell
Under the guidance of Professor Axel Behrens, we are seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Training Fellow. We are looking for a highly motivated and creative molecular biologist with a strong background in breast cancer biology. The goal of the project is to use advanced genetic cancer mouse models and patient-derived human cancer organoids, to apply their cancer biology skills to elucidate mechanisms of breast cancer stem cell biology and metastasis formation, with the ultimate aim to develop novel therapeutics. About you The successful candidate must have: Considerable experience in cancer biology Considerable experience in working with human patient-derived cancer organoids Considerable experience in working with in vivo breast cancer models Considerable experience in CRISPR modification of human patient-derived cancer organoids Candidates who are nearing completion of their PhD may apply, but confirmation on awarded PhD is required within 6 months of employment. 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 7 years. For general information on Postdocs at The ICR, more information can be found here. Department/Directorate Information This post will sit within the Cancer Stem Cell team, part of the Breast Cancer Research Division - further information can be found here. What we offer A dynamic and supportive research environment Access to state-of-the-art facilities and professional development opportunities Collaboration with leading researchers in the field Competitive salary and pension 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 Ian Evans at [email protected]
Head of Development Operations
About the Role We are seeking a Head of Development Operations to join our Development and Communications Directorate. We are currently in a period of considerable investment and growth in our Development and Communications directorate here at the ICR, with increasing professionalisation and innovation, leaving us poised for another “step change” with the opportunity presented by a major expansion of our fundraising. In order to optimise the team’s response to this change, we are now seeking an experienced Head of Operations who will play a leading role in ensuring our income streams are supported through provision of highly efficient support services, systems and procedures. In the past couple of years: we have transformed our use of data and introduced a new pipeline management system; we have put in place a new donation platform to make it easier to generate digital fundraising income via our website and social media (already seeing average gift levels increase); we have launched a new website, which is more accessible, better able to cross-promote fundraising and more search engine-friendly; we have carried out reviews and feasibility studies to identify ways to help us build a much stronger and more predictable platform of unrestricted income – through increased focus on regular giving and legacies; we are more actively pursuing new business in trusts and foundations, building on a loyal pipeline; and we have engaged a sector leader on philanthropy to help us set up a Philanthropy Board. But there is much still to do. By strengthening further across the fundraising ecosystem, we will increase our opportunities for cross-working and cross-selling from one fundraising income stream to another, increasing our efficiency and the lifetime value of our donors. Key Responsibilities To manage and lead on all aspects of our fundraising Operations, establishing and implementing the necessary systems, procedures and culture in which our fundraising can continuously develop, thrive, and achieve its next phase of growth; To develop smarter, more sophisticated ways of handling third party/donor/supporter response systems and to embed a structure which strongly encourages cross promotion and exchange between teams. This role ensures operational excellence, compliance, and innovation across donor management, technology, and support services. What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Department/Directorate Information The Development and Communications directorate tells the ICR’s story and focuses on income generation. The ICR is world-renowned for its outstanding cancer research – and it deserves communication to match. We believe that communicating effectively about the ICR's work can help us build on our successes – attracting donors and supporters, the best staff and students, commercial partners and collaborators. 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 Thomas Bland via email on [email protected]
Clinical Lectureship- Medical Oncology- Clinical Therapeutics, Pharmacology and Industry
The ICR is Europe’s leading cancer research centre and has been ranked the UK’s top academic research centre, based on the results of the Higher Education Funding Council’s Research Assessment Exercise. This lectureship has been awarded to the ICR through national competition and will provide high quality academic training for individuals in specialist training who can demonstrate that they have outstanding potential for development as a clinical academic. The successful candidate will be supported through post-doctoral clinical academic training initiatives offered by the ICR in conjunction with the RM/ICR NIHR Biomedical Research Centre to support the pathway to an independent research career Key features of the programme: The research component of this programme will allow the candidate to spend 50% of their time undertaking research in one or more of the research teams/laboratories across 8 Research Divisions at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) that will fit with their own research interests and the Clinical Therapeutics/Pharmacology/Industry Theme of this post. The clinical training component of this programme will occupy 50% of the CLs timetable, and the post holder will already have a national training number The post holder will receive generic and tumour focused training in the management of oncology patients in both an in-patient and out-patient settings including planning disease-specific care and treatment. The post-holder will be expected to understand the principles and processes of clinical research and to manage patients within clinical trials in accordance with the principles of Good Clinical Practice. Further details of the programme can be found within the attached job description. Please contact the Talent team for any queries or questions [email protected]
Clinical Lectureship- Medical Oncology- Digital
The ICR is Europe’s leading cancer research centre and has been ranked the UK’s top academic research centre, based on the results of the Higher Education Funding Council’s Research Assessment Exercise. This lectureship has been awarded to the ICR through national competition and will provide high quality academic training for individuals in specialist training who can demonstrate that they have outstanding potential for development as a clinical academic. The successful candidate will be supported through post-doctoral clinical academic training initiatives offered by the ICR in conjunction with the RM/ICR NIHR Biomedical Research Centre to support the pathway to an independent research career. Bespoke training, networking and mentorships schemes have been devised in addition to courses aimed at developing specific research skills. The latter include courses of grant writing, peer reviewing publications and writing scientific papers. The ICR has Athena Swan Silver status and is committed to the development of academics from all backgrounds. Key features of the programme: To spend 50% of their time undertaking research in one or more of the research teams/laboratories across 8 Research Divisions at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) that will fit with their own research interests and the Digital Theme of this post. The clinical training component of this programme will occupy 50% of the CLs timetable, and the post holder will already have a national training number. The post holder will receive generic and tumour focused training in the management of oncology patients in both an in-patient and out-patient settings including planning disease-specific care and treatment. The post-holder will be expected to understand the principles and processes of clinical research and to manage patients within clinical trials in accordance with the principles of Good Clinical Practice. Further details of the programme can be found within the attached job description. Please contact the Talent team for any queries or questions [email protected]