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]
Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Post-translational Modifications and Cell Proliferation
Under the leadership of Dr. Jörg Mansfeld, we are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious candidate for a Postdoctoral Training Fellow position, with experience in cell cycle research, ubiquitin, or redox biology. This position will build on our recent work on CDK2 and p21 oxidation, as well as cell cycle-dependent redox proteomics, to investigate the interplay between protein oxidation, ubiquitinylation, and phosphorylation in both non-transformed and cancer cells. We collaborate with several groups at the ICR to validate our findings in animal models and patient samples. The successful candidate will have the intellectual freedom to develop the project, with support from the Group Leader, while working as part of a collaborative and multidisciplinary team. More information can be found in the Job Description Pack (see download link to the right). For general information on Post Doc's at The ICR can be found here. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have previous experience in cell cycle, ubiquitin, or redox research. A strong cell biology or biochemistry background with an emphasis on the regulation of protein-protein interactions and mechanistic studies in vitro or in cells is highly desirable. Knowledge in DNA replication and/or DNA damage repair 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. Post-translational Modifications and Proliferation Group The Post-translational Modifications and Proliferation Group investigates the intricate regulation of cell cycle control through post-translational modifications (PTMs). We focus on the interplay of thiol oxidation with phosphorylation and ubiquitylation in the context of cell cycle regulation. We employ cutting-edge mass spectrometry to identify PTMs, advanced gene-editing, and single-cell imaging to investigate the physiological impact of PTMs. Experimental models include 2D and 3D cell culture with a focus on non-transformed cell models and breast cancer. More information about our work can be found at www.mansfeldlab.com. Our team is embedded within the Cancer Biology Division at the ICR’s Chester Beatty Laboratories in Chelsea, London. We have a highly supportive and interactive research environment, and state of the art facilities for cell biology, molecular biology, next-generation sequencing and structural biology. We also closely interact with other divisions at the ICR, including Breast Cancer Research, Radiotherapy and Imaging, and Structural Biology. The great variety of disciplines at the ICR will ensure that the successful candidate will be exposed to fantastic research and seminars from all types of backgrounds. Download the job pack for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Dr. Jörg Mansfeld via 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.
Clinical Research Fellow
We are seeking to appoint a Clinical Research Fellow to undertake a fully funded translational PhD project entitled: Decoding the Cancer Genome to inform patient care: Identifying DNA damage response biomarkers and novel synthetic lethal targets. The objective is to to utilise whole genome sequencing data from patient tumours to map tumour-type or cohort-specific DNA Damage Response (DDR) activity in order to advance precision oncology by identifying: 1) DNA repair factors driving specific mutational patterns; 2) novel synthetic lethal targets paired with actionable biomarkers. Key Requirements Candidates must have full GMC Registration, an MB BS degree (or equivalent), and a keen interest in decoding cancer genome through advanced genomic insights. Divisions of Cancer Biology and Genetics and Epidemiology Professor Wojciech Niedzwiedz investigates the mechanisms by which cells detect and repair damaged DNA, and how dysregulation of DNA damage responses leads to genomic instability, cancer-prone and premature aging syndromes. Professor Niedzwiedz heads the Cancer and Genome Instability Group within the Division of Cancer Biology. Professor Richard Houlston is Head of the Division of Genetics and Epidemiology. His research focuses on the identification and characterisation of genetic susceptibility to cancer. 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 Wojciech Niedzwiedz at [email protected].
Head of Legal
The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) is seeking a motivated and experienced individual to fill an exciting new role of Head of Legal. As one of the world's most influential cancer research institutions, the ICR is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and innovation. As the Head of Legal, you will provide leadership and line management (direct/indirect) of an integrated contracts team and will be responsible for providing definitive legal advice and support across all functions within the Business and Innovation Directorate. You will have overarching responsibility for ensuring that institutional policies and legislative changes relating to the work that the Business and Innovation Office carry out are monitored, managed and implemented as well as, leadership and responsibility for the contracting duties of the academic, commercial and clinical trials contract teams. In addition to your role in supporting the Business and Innovation directorate you will provide advice and support to other Corporate Services teams and the wider Institute of Cancer Research on a case-by-case basis. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have: Recognised professional legal qualification. Significant leadership and line-management experience. Be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister, with a current practicing certificate and have a demonstrated comprehensive understanding and knowledge of commercial contracts and intellectual property management. Directorate Information: The Business and Innovation Office leads the ICR's interactions with commercial partners to ensure our research leads rapidly to benefits for people with cancer. Our approach to our partnerships – and in particular the licensing of our intellectual property – is guided by our aim to defeat cancer. Joining one of the most successful teams of its type in the UK, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field and contribute to ground breaking discoveries that impact patients' lives worldwide. This role offers a unique chance to merge your legal expertise with the mission of advancing science and healthcare. By becoming Head of Legal, you will have the opportunity to shape the legal landscape within a pioneering institution dedicated to transforming cancer research and treatment. 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 Jon Wilkinson via email on [email protected].
Senior Business Development Manager
As Senior Business Development Manager, you will be required to manage a team of 2 or 3 Business Development Managers and have responsibility for the commercialisation of a portfolio of projects which will largely (but not exclusively) originate from defined Divisions within ICR. This will include identifying research or other activities within ICR suitable for commercial exploitation, arranging for intellectual property to be protected where necessary and appropriate, identifying potential commercial partners or other routes to market and leading negotiations and closing licence, collaboration or spin-out deals. To be successful, the appointee will be required to quickly develop a good understanding of the ICR’s research capabilities and commercial opportunities and be able to explain these to potential collaborators or develop them for commercial gain. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have extensive experience of working at the industry academia interface and recent practical experience of successfully drafting, negotiating and concluding complex contracts. Be able to manage and take responsibility (either directly or through their business development team) for the commercialisation (through collaborative research, licensing or new venture creation) of a portfolio of projects which will largely (but not exclusively) originate from defined Divisions within ICR, some of which may be complex or politically sensitive. To identify research within the ICR that has commercial potential or potential to be developed for patient benefit, and identify the most effective route to achieve commercial and/or patient benefit. Department/Directorate Information The Business and Innovation Office is made up of a skilled team of staff who together have several decades’ experience in collaborating and contracting with commercial organisations and ICR scientists – turning our discoveries into patient benefits. The Business and Innovation Office is one of the most successful teams of its type in the UK, playing a major role in making the ICR the UK’s leading research institute for research impact and commercialisation as well as one of the world’s most innovative academic organisations. https://www.icr.ac.uk/working-with-industry 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 Jon Wilkinson, via [email protected].
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]
Research Data Management Architect
As Research Data Management Architect, you will be required to design, implement and maintain robust data management strategies to ensure the effective and efficient management of research data throughout its lifecycle, including developing policies, procedures, and technical solutions to support data collection, storage, preservation, and sharing. You will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Research Data Management within ICR, leading organisational capability. This is an excellent opportunity to establish a team to deliver exceptional Research Data Management services. Key Requirements The successful candidate must have Experience in developing and implementing research data management policies, procedures, and standards. A deep understanding of data lifecycle management concepts. Experience working with researchers and other stakeholders to identify and address data management needs. Experience in providing training and support to researchers on data management best practices and tools. Department/Directorate Information The Digital Services Directorate ensures that everyone at the ICR has access to the technology they need to do their jobs effectively including providing specialist IT support to the ICR’s research community. Scientific Computing is one of three Units within Digital Services and provides a number of key services to researchers across the ICR, including High Performance Computing (HPC), Research Data Storage (RDS), Research Data Management (RDM) and Scientific Software. 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 Giddings via Telephone/Email on 020 87224293 or [email protected].