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
Postdoctoral Training Fellow
Under the leadership of Claudio Alfieri, we are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Training Fellow to join the Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Cycle Regulation Group at the Chester Beatty Laboratories, Fulham Road in London. This project aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of cell cycle regulation by macromolecular complexes involved in cell proliferation decisions, by combining genome engineering, proteomics and in situ structural biology. For general information on Post Doc's at The ICR can be found here. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have a PhD in cellular biochemistry and experience in Cryo-EM and CLEM 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 7 years Department/Directorate Information: The candidate will work in the Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Cycle Regulation Group within the ICR Division of Structural Biology headed by Prof. Laurence Pearl and Prof. Sebastian Guettler. The division has state-of-the-art facilities for protein expression and biophysics/x-ray crystallography, in particular the Electron Microscopy Facility is equipped with a Glacios 200kV with Falcon 4i detector with Selectris energy filter and the ICR has access to Krios microscopes via eBIC and the LonCEM consortium. 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 Claudio Alfieri via Email on [email protected]
Clinical Research Fellow
Applications are invited for the post of Clinical Research Fellow in the Prostate Cancer Targeted Therapy Group (PCTTG) at The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust to contribute to the discovery, development and delivery of the next generation of treatments, technologies and methodology into clinical care. This post is an excellent opportunity to be centrally involved in the management of patients with advanced prostate cancer enrolled in clinical trials of experimental anti-cancer drugs. In addition, the applicant will be encouraged to become involved in translational research that could lead to a PhD and will gain experience in translational and clinical research including the conduct of clinical trials and manuscript writing. To be considered applicants must meet the following essential criteria: Full registration with the General Medical Council, Acquisition of MRCP, and Clinical experience in managing cancer patients. Department/Directorate Information The PCTTG, under the leadership and guidance of Professor Johann de Bono and Dr Adam Sharp, has led on the development of many of the new drugs currently used for the management of advanced prostate cancer including abiraterone, cabazitaxel, enzalutamide, olaparib and Lutetium PSMA. The Unit is based at the Royal Marsden in the Oak Cancer Centre, a day-care area with outpatient facilities exclusively dedicated to the care and treatment of patients enrolled in clinical trials and is closely linked to our translational research laboratories at The Institute of Cancer Research. 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 Professor Johann de Bono via email on [email protected]
Research Group Leader, ICR Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit (ICR-CTSU)
Role Summary The Group Leader will lead a component of ICR-CTSU’s portfolio of clinical trials research. The post holder will further develop and grow the portfolio in line with ICR-CTSU’s overall strategy and take responsibility for a number of ongoing trials as well as the development of new trials. We seek an experienced 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 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, s/he 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 or bio-statistician within the academic or commercial sector 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 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 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])
Group Leader in In Vivo Cancer Modelling
The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London 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 Cancer Biology. We welcome applications at both the Career Development Faculty and Career Faculty levels. Key Requirements The successful candidate will generate and employ state-of-the-art 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 have an 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 track record in cancer research, coupled with a compelling research vision leveraging advanced genetic mouse models and clear potential to secure competitive 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 postholder 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]), Head of the Division of Cancer Biology at the ICR.
Human Resources Administration Team Leader
About the Role We are seeking an Human Resources Administration Team Leader to join our Human Resources Team. The main purpose of the role is to: Manage the HR administrative team and to provide a high-quality, customer-focused generalist HR administrative service across the organisation and to agreed service levels. To manage and undertake a range of generalist HR administrative and related duties in support of the HR Operations team. To work closely with the Recruitment Team to ensure seamless progression through the recruitment process. To carry out project work, and associated tasks to support the work of the department in delivering the HR strategy. About You We are looking for someone with: At least part-qualified membership status of the CIPD Good demonstratable working knowledge of current employment law and best HR and employment practices and principles Excellent organisational and time-management skills. Demonstrable experience of working in an HR department providing generalist operational HR support Previous line management experience What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Department/Directorate Information The HR Division works closely with stakeholders to promote best people management practice and provide specialist advice and guidance covering: recruitment and selection terms and conditions of employment contractual administration pay and reward performance management employee relations people management We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. You may contact Karen Grieff for further information by emailing [email protected].
Administrative Assistant
About the Role We are seeking an Administrative Assistant to join the Translational Genetics Team. Contributing to administration of research and operational activities required for successful delivery of team grants. The successful candidate will play a key role in providing administrative assistance to team meetings, finance and procurement management, and day-to-day running of transformational programmes focussed on cancer susceptibility genetics. Key Responsibilities Tracking of finances, leading on procurement, and processing expenses on behalf of the team. Assisting with day-to-day running of the programmes, including data entry and preparation of materials or packs to be sent to patients. Capturing information and progress data for grant awards and publications within team trackers and databases. Arranging meetings with collaborators, including charities, patient support groups, researchers, clinicians, and senior members of NHS England and Health Education England. Contributing to patient and public involvement/engagement (PPI/E) activities, including arranging reimbursement. Maintaining efficient filing systems and records. About You We are looking for a detail-oriented individual to work within a team environment. The successful candidate should be: Educated to GCSE level or equivalent. Have proven experience in provision of administrative assistance to teams, ideally within a research or healthcare setting. Excellent organizational and time-management skills. Strong communication and interpersonal abilities. Proficiency in use of Microsoft packages (outlook, word, excel etc.) Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive data What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Department/Directorate Information The post will be situated in the Translational Genetics team (team lead: Prof Clare Turnbull), which consists of both clinically-focussed translational research and analytical/bioinformatics research. 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 Bethany Torr via email: [email protected]
Analytical Scientist in Computational Genomics
Under the guidance of Dr Syed Haider, we are seeking to recruit a highly motivated researcher to apply and develop computational approaches for investigating genomic and transcriptomic determinants of heterogeneity in treatment resistant breast cancers. The successful candidate will employ computational approaches to meaningfully integrate bulk/single cell genomic/transcriptomic and imaging assays to identify mechanisms of treatment resistance in breast cancer. In addition to computational discovery; resulting suitable therapeutic targets will be subject to pre-clinical investigation and subsequent design of translational studies at our research centre. Hence, this study will be performed closely in collaboration with experimental and clinical investigators at the Breast Cancer Now Research Centre, Institute of Cancer Research, London. About you The successful candidate must have: PhD in quantitative subject with exposure to genomic/transcriptomics dataset Programming and scripting experience elevant experience in statistics and genetics Department/Directorate Information The Breast Cancer Research Data Science Team is an interdisciplinary group of researchers (~12) who are experts in high-throughput data analyses, machine learning and software engineering. We work in a highly dynamic and collaborative environment focussing on the identification of molecular markers of breast cancer by interrogating genomic, epigenomic and transcriptomic datasets profiled using bulk as well as single-cell assays. These molecular datasets are generated using patient samples and patient-derived models (xenografts and organoids), and interpreted alongside clinical covariates of patients. In particular, we are interested in the application and development of bioinformatics methods to help understand the molecular basis of treatment resistant breast cancers. The post holder will work in close collaboration with the Cancer Stem Cells laboratory led by Prof. Axel Behrens. 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.
Research Data & Systems Engineer
We are seeking to appoint a motivated Research Data & Systems Engineer to join the Integrative Cancer Epidemiology Team (led by Professor Montserrat Garcia-Closas) and Clinical Cancer Epidemiology Team (led by Professor Amy Berrington) at the ICR Division of Genetics and Epidemiology, to work on a program of research based on the ongoing Generations Study, a national study of over 110,000 women from the UK. Under the leadership of Professor's Montserrat Garcia-Closas and Amy Berrington, this is an exciting opportunity to join our dynamic and forefront research multidisciplinary team, using epidemiological and real-world data-driven approaches to understand the causes of cancer and how to prevent it. In this role you will help manage and develop the study's infrastructure and operational systems, ensuring efficient processing of multi-source data and contributing to the stability and performance of key systems. About You The successful candidate must have a Bachelor's degree, and preferably hold a Master's degree, in computer science, data science, software engineering or related field, who will enjoy working as part of a multidisciplinary team interacting with epidemiologists, biologists, statisticians, data scientists and operational managers. The post will be situated within the Division of Genetics & Epidemiology on the ICRs Sutton campus. Department/Directorate Information The Research Data and Systems Engineer will work with the Integrative Epidemiology Team (led by Professor Montserrat Garcia- Closas) and Clinical Epidemiology Team (led by Professor Amy Berrington) at the ICR Division of Genetics and Epidemiology. The Division is internationally renowned for its pioneering work in understanding the underlying genetic and environmental causes of cancer risk. High-quality laboratory, epidemiological and clinical research within the division is driven by energetic, innovative leadership and complemented by participation in national and international research consortiums, clinical collaborations, and technological partnerships. At the Integrative Epidemiology Team we use integrative analyses of large-scale data in epidemiological studies to investigate the causes of cancer, understand carcinogenic processes and improve risk assessment for precision prevention. At the Clinical Epidemiology Team we use real world data to investigate the late-effects of cancer treatments, cancer survival and cancer risks from other medications. Our work informs prevention and public health strategies at both the population and individual levels to reduce the burden of cancer. We have a program of research based on the ongoing Generations Study, a national study of over 110,000 women from the UK. Women in the study have provided blood samples and detailed questionnaire information at recruitment, and in repeat follow-up questionnaires. Data includes self- reported risk factor information, hormone levels, genetics, and artificial intelligence (AI) analyses of tissue images from breast tumours, benign breast disease and mammography images. We also access their medical records to collect information on cancer screening and treatments. The scientific staff comprise epidemiologists, statisticians and data scientist who collaborate with researchers around the world. We are part of the newly formed Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research Unit https://www.icr.ac.uk/our-research/centres- and-collaborations/strategic-collaborations/the-cancer-epidemiology- and-prevention-research-unit-(cepru), a research partnership between The ICR and Imperial College London to establish collaborations in research, training and knowledge dissemination in cancer epidemiology and prevention. 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 Professor Montserrat Garcia-Closas via Email at [email protected]