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]
Scientific Officer: Radiotherapy Physics Modelling
Under the guidance of Professor Uwe Oelfke, we are seeking to recruit a Scientific Officer to provide skilled laboratory assistance in pre-clinical projects in radiobiological and immunological research. The successful candidate will provide first line user training and support for our three x-ray radiation devices including performing the monthly quality assurance. They will also be expected to contribute to the design and delivery of on-going research projects. About you The successful candidate must have: A BSc. in Physics or Biomedical Sciences (or equivalent) MSc. in Physics and Engineering or Biomedical Sciences (desirable) A basic knowledge of Matlab, Python or C/C++ The ability to understand and discuss scientific projects Experience of working under pressure and adhering to established deadlines The ability to work independently whilst still being a good team player Excellent organisation skills with attention to detail Department/Directorate Information The Radiotherapy Physics Modelling Team, lead by Professor Uwe Oelfke, sits within the Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging. We are applying cutting edge Radiotherapy techniques in a multi-disciplinary setting to investigate the application of radiation in an in-vitro and in-vivo setting. The postholder will be based within the Centre for Cancer Imaging which houses 130 imaging researchers from a range of disciplines. 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. To arrange an informal discussion regarding the role, please email [email protected]
Data Scientist
Under the guidance of Professor Trevor Graham, we are seeking to recruit a Data Scientist to support Data Science research across the ICR. The successful candidate will particularly work on the analysis of spatial data including multiplex immunohistochemistry, H&Es and spatial transcriptomics. About you The successful candidate must have: A PhD in quantitative subject, or likely to be awarded PhD in the near future. Research experience equivalent to PhD level will be considered. Undergraduate degree, or Masters or equivalent in a quantitative subject. Skills in bioinformatics computing coding, in languages including R, Python and other scripting languages as is appropriate. Experience of using high performance computing (HPC) systems for scientific computing. Experience of computational biology research methodologies pertinent to the role. Department/Directorate Information The Data Science Committee is chaired by Professor Trevor Graham, providing academic leadership of data science at the ICR to maximise the impact of our cancer research, by applying innovative data science and computation tools (in addition to our traditional areas of strength) to tackle the important cancer questions and ensuring infrastructure is considered to enable this. 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 Prof Trevor Graham [email protected].
Flow Cytometry Specialist
A Flow Cytometry Specialist position is available at the ICR Flow Cytometry Facility from September 2025. Part of a team of five staff working across both of our sites, the post holder will be responsible for the day-to-day operation and management of the facility. This includes instrument maintenance, calibration and troubleshooting, cell analysis and sorting, data analysis and training, panel design and protocol optimization as well as to assist researchers with expert technical advice and support. The role should enable the production of high-quality data which is publication ready. The successful candidate will provide Flow Cytometry, single cell solutions and data analysis support to researchers at the Institute of Cancer Research. About you The successful candidate should ideally have: BSc/MSc in biological sciences and have excellent laboratory and analytical skills. Experience with multi-colour flow cytometry (analysis and sorting), panel design and data analysis (flow and imaging) is essential. Experience in high parameter data analysis and coding, as well as experience working in core research facility or in lab management would be advantageous. Given the dynamic role the successful candidate will have excellent communication and team working skills as well as be able to work independently and under pressure, prioritize work effectively and be pragmatic and flexible. You will have excellent attention to detail and good IT skills. Department/Directorate Information At the ICR we aim to defeat cancer through scientific excellence, innovation and partnership. These principals underpin our approach to scientific infrastructure and research support. The Core Research Facilities, which include Flow Cytometry Facility, are part of the wider Research Services that supports researchers at the ICR. The use of cutting-edge technology coupled with expert staff, who employ it effectively, is essential to the success and progress of our research work. We are proud to have a number of Core Research Facilities within the ICR that provide this resource to our researchers. 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 Hira Ale via Email [email protected]
Digital Marketing Officer
About the Role We are seeking a Digital Marketing Officer to join our Development and Communications directorate and contribute to the ICR’s digital marketing needs – in particular, to support fundraising across all digital touchpoints. The successful candidate will play a key role in producing and editing digital fundraising content for the ICR’s website and donation platform; creating content for digital ads, including writing copy, working on video briefs, and collating appropriate imagery; our email marketing by writing compelling copy, building templates and working with data. Key Responsibilities Creating fundraising content for the ICR's website Developing effective digital supporter journeys Writing copy for email marketing Creating and optimising content for digital advertising About You We are looking for someone with experience in writing engaging copy for email marketing, social media and paid advertising, and have good knowledge of email marketing and digital platforms including Mailchimp, Google Search Ads, Ad Grants and Meta. What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Directorate Information The role of the Development and Communications directorate is to tell the ICR’s story and focus 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 Thea Cassel, Digital Marketing Manager, via email on [email protected].
Postdoctoral Training Fellow: ADP-ribosylation in Wnt/β-catenin signalling and telomere maintenance
The full title of the role is Postdoctoral Training Fellow: Biochemistry and cell biology of ADP-ribosylation in Wnt/β-catenin signalling and telomere maintenance. Under the guidance of Professor Sebastian Guettler, we are seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Training Fellow to investigate the molecular mechanisms of tankyrase regulation and function, building on recent insights from structural and genetic studies. The post would be particularly suitable for a candidate seeking to apply cellular biochemistry, mammalian genetics(CRISPR) and light microscopy (including live-cell imaging) to investigate the function and mechanism of tankyrase in various cellular roles, particularly Wnt/beta-catenin signalling and telomere maintenance. The position will offer a stimulating balance of independence and collaboration. About you The successful candidate must have: - a PhD in a biological science - solid experience in recombinant DNA techniques and mammalian genetics (CRISPR) - solid experience in mammalian cell biology and cellular biochemistry - evidence of contributing to research publications 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 Work in the Structural Biology of Cell Signalling Team, led by Professor Sebastian Guettler, in the ICR Divisions of Structural Biology and Cell and Molecular Biology, centres on the molecular mechanisms of Wnt/beta-catenin signalling and telomere maintenance, both of which play key roles in stem cells and a wide range of cancers. A core interest of the team is to understand how ADP-ribosylation, a complex and extremely versatile post-translational modification, controls both these systems, and how ADP-ribosyltransferases are themselves regulated. 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 [email protected].
Head of Biology, Cancer Drug Discovery (Group Leader)
The ICR is seeking an established research leader in cancer drug discovery biology with a track record in discovering innovative drugs to be the Head of Biology in the Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery (CCDD). The appointee will provide scientific leadership for the CCDD biology discipline, champion scientific excellence and work closely with senior team leaders in the CCDD to provide a strategic vision for the research and drug discovery portfolio. Key Requirements The role requires excellence in cancer biology, coupled with significant experience across the target identification to candidate selection stages of drug discovery. We envisage that applicants will have either significant commercial experience of successful drug discovery or have a strong academic track record in cancer biology and small molecule drug discovery; or will have a combination of both backgrounds. As part of your online application you will be required to upload your full CV which will pre-populate your application form. Department/Directorate Information: 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 Abby Cook via Email on [email protected]
Director of Centre for Target Validation (CTV) (Group Leader)
The ICR is seeking an established research leader in cancer biology with a track record in target validation for drug discovery to be the Director of the Centre for Target Validation (CTV). The appointee will provide scientific and strategic leadership of the CTV, ensuring a pipeline of robust, clinically relevant targets for drug discovery programmes within the ICR’s Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery (CCDD). They will collaborate with scientists across the ICR to identify target validation projects with therapeutic potential that are suitable to benefit from the Centre’s dedicated resource and scientific expertise. They will lead, direct, and participate in multidisciplinary projects to define/refine therapeutic hypotheses, examine mechanisms of target modulation, and explore biomarkers and patient selection criteria. Working with the CTV Deputy Director, they will ensure that ICR expertise in drug target identification is effectively translated to drug discovery programmes at ICR and with external partners. Key Requirements The appointee will lead an independent research group contributing to the discovery of novel targets and/or innovative small molecule anticancer therapies, aligned with the strategy and goals of the CTV / CCDD. The role requires expertise in cancer biology and substantial experience in target identification & validation; experience of later drug discovery stages is valued. We envisage that applicants will have either significant commercial experience or have a strong academic track record in cancer biology for target validation; or will have a combination of both backgrounds. As part of your online application you will be required to upload your full CV which will pre-populate your application form. Department/Directorate Information: 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 Abby Cook Email on [email protected]