Study and Careers
As the UK’s leading academic research centre, The Institute of Cancer Research offers a fantastic work and study environment, great opportunities for development and the chance to make a real difference for cancer patients. We aim to train, recruit and develop the best – with positions for outstanding scientists and clinicians, and the most talented professional or administrative staff.
Studying at the ICR
Our competitive programmes and specialised courses are designed for the next generation of cancer researchers and clinicians.
PhD projects and opportunities
We offer 20 fully funded PhD studentships each year. Our main round opens in October, but we also advertise projects throughout the year.
Opportunities for clinicians
At The Institute of Cancer Research, London, we offer clinicians a variety of opportunities – from a taught master's course in Oncology, to fellowships providing protected time for research, and higher research degrees.
MSc in Oncology
The Taught Course in Oncology is a day-release modular programme designed for medically qualified candidates who intend to pursue a professional career in some aspect of clinical or medical oncology, either as a clinical academic or a clinician.
Why study with us?
By providing world-class expertise and support to students at The Institute of Cancer Research, we hope to advance cancer research and clinical practice not only within our organisation, but throughout the field.
Student Profile
Varun Ramaswamy is a third-year PhD student at the ICR. He is working on a collaborative project between the Division of Cancer Therapeutics and the Division of Structural Biology that aims to solve the 3D structure of a protein called HSET using cryo-electron microscopy and complementary biophysical techniques.
Employee Story
Head of Research Support (corporate role) Dr Becky Cook Dr Becky Cook is Head of Research Support at The Institute of Cancer Research. She oversees our large strategic grant applications and is supporting the ICR's next submission to the Research Excellence Framework (REF), which is the definitive government evaluation of the quality and impact of research at UK universities.
Support moving to the UK
Whether you're a student or a full time employee, you'll get a variety of social, welfare and accommodation benefits and advice, to help your move to the UK.
Working life and benefits
As a world-leading cancer research organisation, we are a dynamic and exciting place to work - with various benefits and support if you’re moving to the UK.
Current openings
We offer 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 postdocs, scientists and clinicians, and professional or administrative staff - see the latest below:
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])
Trainee Animal Technician Apprentice
About the Role We are seeking a highly motivated Trainee Animal Technician apprentice to join our Biological Services Unit (BSU) and contribute to the vital front-line support we provide to the ICR scientific community. The BSU plays a critical role in facilitating research by maintaining the highest standards of animal care and welfare in accordance with The Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986. As a Trainee Animal Technician apprentice, you will begin your career in laboratory animal care by receiving comprehensive, hands-on training in routine animal husbandry, welfare monitoring, and facility hygiene. This role is designed to equip you with the necessary skills and experience to progress within the BSU team, with opportunities for regrading based on demonstrated competency and performance. Key Responsibilities Provide daily husbandry and care for laboratory animals, including feeding, watering, and bedding changes. Monitor animal health and welfare, reporting concerns promptly to supervisors. Clean and maintain animal rooms and working areas according to SOPs and hygiene standards. About You We are looking for someone who can demonstrate an interest in animal care and welfare with the following skills : Passes in four subjects at GCSE level (or equivalent), including English Language and Mathematics or a Science subject. Strong empathy and respect for animals. High standards of reliability, dependability, and conscientiousness. Able to work both independently and as part of a small team. Willingness to participate in rota-based weekend and holiday work. What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Department/Directorate Information The Biological Services Unit (BSU) sits within the Research Services Directorate at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). The BSU is an essential component of the ICR’s research infrastructure, providing front-line support to scientists by ensuring the ethical and high-quality care of animals used in research. Operating across the Chelsea and Sutton campuses, the BSU ensures compliance with The Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and maintains the highest standards of animal welfare, facility hygiene, and biosecurity. The team plays a critical role in enabling preclinical cancer research, offering not only animal care and housing but also technical support, advice, and training to research staff. As part of the Research Services Directorate, the BSU collaborates closely with scientists across ICR departments to support cutting-edge cancer research. The unit upholds the ICR’s commitment to ethical research practices, continual improvement, and the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) in animal research. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role.
Scientific Officer - Myeloma Molecular Therapy
Under the guidance of Professor Martin Kaiser, we are seeking to recruit a Scientific Officer to contribute to The Haemato-Oncology Research Unit which is involved in a number of ground-breaking phase I, II and III clinical trials in myeloma and leukaemia, as well as being the central laboratory for scientific studies linked to a number of national clinical studies (including MRC, CRUK, and Myeloma UK funded studies). The successful candidate will play a key role in processing, purification and bio- banking of clinical samples both from national trials as well as from the Royal Marsden Hospital. The post holder will apply molecular biology techniques that are established in our laboratory for the detection of genetic aberrations in patient samples. About you The successful candidate must have: A BSc in biological subject and ideally have experience of working to good laboratory practice & standard safety rules. Basic knowledge of computers that includes databases and word-processing is essential as well as experience with molecular biology techniques. Experience with massively parallel sequencing, flow cytometry or primary cell culture would be an advantage. Knowledge of a diagnostic laboratory would also be advantageous. Department/Directorate Information The Division of Genetics and Epidemiology is internationally renowned for its pioneering work in understanding the underlying genetic 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. Professor Martin Kaiser's Myeloma Molecular Therapy Group's research aim is to design gentler, tailored therapies for patients with multiple myeloma. You can find out more using the link Genetics and Epidemiology - The Institute of Cancer Research, London 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 Martin Kaiser via Email on [email protected]
HR Administrator
About the Role We are seeking a HR Administrator to join our HR Operations Team and contribute to the HR administration of the institute. The successful candidate will play a key role in the smooth onboarding of honorary appointments as well as data management for the honorary appointments. Key Responsibilities To provide a high quality, professional and customer focused generalist HR administrative service, in line with established service level agreements (SLAs). To provide general HR Advice and guidance to managers and staff on HR related matters. To undertake a range of generalist HR administrative and related duties in support of the HR Operations team. To provide assistance within the onboarding of our honorary appointments. About You We are looking for a proactive and detail oriented individual with excellent time management skills. What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Department/Directorate Information We know that talented, brilliant, passionate people lie at the heart of the ICR. That's why we provide the policies, procedures, systems and people management infrastructure to recruit, retain, motivate and develop our people to achieve their full potential. We offer both operational and strategic support to teams across the ICR. We are organised across four main functions: • HR Operations • Learning and Organisational Development • Pensions • Information, Systems and Projects The ICR's future success depends on recruiting the very best people with the very best skills and our HR strategy ensures that we have the organisational capacity and capability to deliver this. 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 Megan Graham by email on [email protected].