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
Principal Statistician
Job Details The Cancer Research UK funded Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR-CTSU) seek an experienced and highly motivated Principal Statistician to join their team of over 20 statisticians. We want to hear from you if you: Enjoy the challenge of researching, developing and implementing efficient trial methodology, and designing efficient clinical trials that will make a difference in patients’ lives Seek variety in your work and opportunities to apply your statistical knowledge across multiple therapeutic areas in oncology. Thrive on being part of a multi-disciplinary research team with like-minded statisticians. Are looking to develop your career within a dynamic and supportive academic environment at a leading cancer clinical trials unit. Key Requirements The successful applicant will be an experienced and highly motivated medical statistician interested in researching new statistical methods and applying their statistical knowledge to the design and analysis of patient-centred clinical trials. They will have a post-graduate qualification in statistics. They should demonstrate a solid understanding of clinical trials and experience in applying statistical methods to real-world data. Familiarity with Bayesian statistics and early phase adaptive trials are highly desirable. Effective oral and written communication skills, as well as enthusiasm for collaborating with others from diverse disciplines, are essential. Department/Directorate Information ICR-CTSU manages an exciting portfolio of national and international phase II and III cancer clinical trials and an expanding number of phase I trials. You will contribute in shaping the development of methodological innovations and implementing efficient methods in new and ongoing trials, with a specific focus in early phase and adaptive trials. You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team on trials methodology research and on the statistical development, oversight and analysis of a number of clinical trials within the ICR-CTSU’s Early Phase and Adaptive Trials portfolio in collaboration with external organisations and the ICR/Royal Marsden Drug Development Unit. In your supporting statement please summarise how your research/managerial experience fits with the role. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. 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 only if the role allows. Flexible working options may be considered. For informal discussion about the role, please contact Professor Christina Yap, email: [email protected] For general queries about the recruitment process, please contact ICR-CTSU, email: [email protected].
Statistical Assistant – Industry Placement
Summary of Role ICR’s Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials & Statistics Unit (ICR-CTSU) is offering a placement year training opportunity at its Sutton site in Surrey for an enthusiastic, adaptable, and quick learning individual, currently undertaking an undergraduate degree in mathematics, statistics or a related field with a strong statistical component. This an exciting opportunity for students interested in a career within clinical trials to receive training within a clinical research setting. The successful applicant will work directly with the ICR-CTSU Statisticians, Trial & Data managers and Trial administrators to support the delivery of a diverse portfolio of phase II/III clinical trials, with a special emphasis in breast, urological and head and neck cancer treatments. You will receive full training in Good Clinical Practice and experience of working in accordance with UK clinical trials legislation. This will put you ahead of the competition when you graduate if you apply for a role in clinical trials either in academic research or in industry. You should be an undergraduate student (in mathematics, statistics or a related field with a strong statistical component) in your second year of study seeking a placement year opportunity in clinical trials. This post will be office based. When applying please provide a supporting statement; together with your CV and the names and addresses of two referees. Key Requirements The successful candidate must be studying for an undergraduate degree in mathematics, statistics or a related field with a strong statistical component. You should have a high level of computer literacy, a proven ability to use MS office packages and work accurately with attention to detail as well as good written and oral communication skills. You should have the ability to adhere to written procedures, work to agreed deadlines and work as part of a team. An interest in cancer research and medical statistics, and the ability to work with confidential information is also essential. Previous experience of the use of statistical programming languages would be an advantage but is not essential. For full details of the requirements see the job description. Department/Directorate Information For information regarding the ICR-CTSU Team go to: https://www.icr.ac.uk/our-research/centres-and-collaborations/centres-at-the-icr/clinical-trials-and-statistics-unit 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 us via email at: [email protected]
Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Biochemistry and Cell Biology of Wnt - β-catenin signalling
Under the guidance of Professor Sebastian Guettler, we are seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Training Fellow to to investigate the molecular mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, using a combination of mammalian genetics, cell biology, proteomics and biochemistry. The successful candidate will apply mammalian genetics (CRISPR), cellular biochemistry, proteomics and light microscopy (including live-cell imaging) to investigate the mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin signalling in normal physiology and cancer. The particular focus of the project will be on studying the molecular mechanisms underlying the activities and regulation of the β-catenin destruction complex and its dysregulation in APC-mutant cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. The position will offer a stimulating balance of independence and collaboration. The candidate will join a multidisciplinary, collaborative and international team with a core expertise in biochemistry, structural biology (electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography), biophysics and genetics, and established collaborations in chemistry and proteomics. About you The successful candidate must have a PhD in a biological science or any other area relevant to the proposed research, and experience in contemporary molecular biology, mammalian genetics, cell biology and biochemistry. 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/β-catenin signalling and telomere maintenance, both of which play key roles in stem cells and a wide range of cancers. A long-standing interest of the team is to understand how ADP-ribosylation, a complex and extremely versatile post-translational modification, controls both these systems, and how the ADP-ribosyltransferase tankyrase is 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 Sebastian Guettler via e-mail on [email protected].
Contracts Associate
About the Role As a Contracts Associate, you will be required to provide a professional and efficient contracts review, negotiation, and advice service to the ICR to enable a range of research and commercial activities The ICR has recently implemented a new contracts lifecycle management system. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a modern way with contracts; significantly reducing administrative workload and intelligently automating routine tasks. Key Requirements Candidates must be educated to degree level or equivalent and have an understanding and knowledge of research contractual issues. They must have experience of working in a contracts team in a higher education or research organisation setting, with well-developed analytic and problem-solving skills. Candidates must have the ability to interpret contract terms, manage workloads and prioritise tasks effectively. Excellent communication and influencing skills and good interpersonal skills will also be required. What We Offer A supportive and collaborative working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. Competitive salary and pension Department/Directorate Information The Institute of Cancer Research is one of the world’s most influential cancer research organisations. Our mission is to make the discoveries that will defeat cancer. We’re looking for a proactive and enthusiastic team member who understands the particular needs and landscape of an academic research institution. As a member of the Business and Innovation Office, you will provide a professional and efficient contracts service to academics, clinicians, and professional services colleagues across the whole of ICR, negotiating and concluding a range of simple and intermediate research agreements. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role.
Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Signalling and Cancer Metabolism
Under the guidance of Dr George Poulogiannis, we are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral training fellow with a strong interest in cancer metabolism to carry out a systems-level research on understanding the metabolic determinants of endocrine therapy resistance for the identification of novel metabolic vulnerabilities. The successful candidate will play a key role in understanding the role of metabolic restructurings in the response to endocrine pathway therapies, using a systems-level approach and state-of-the-art metabolomics. About you The successful candidate must have: PhD in systems biology, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology or similar Proven ability to work independently and a strong desire to develop independent projects High level of competence in a wide range of laboratory techniques, protocol development and optimization and trouble-shooting Demonstrable extensive skills in in silico mathematical modelling including flux balance analysis, constraint-based modelling, and computational optimization techniques Demonstrable extensive skills in molecular/cell biology (cloning, gene editing, 2D/3D cell culture) and signalling (WB, IP, IF) 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. Signalling and Cancer Metabolism Group, Division of Cell and Molecular Biology Work in the Signalling and Cancer Metabolism Group, led by Dr George Poulogiannis, in the Division of Cell and Molecular Biology focusses on understanding the signalling and metabolic networks that are related to cell growth and malignant transformation. In particular, we are interested in deciphering the genetic and molecular pathways that underlie metabolic addiction of cancer cells to known biosynthetic pathways and/or drive cancer cell adaptation to oxygen and nutrient deprivation. In line with these efforts, we aim to explore unique metabolic nodes for novel therapeutic intervention, biomarker selection and personalise treatment. More information on the Signalling and Cancer Metabolism Group 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 Dr George Poulogiannis via email on [email protected].
Personal Assistant
Key Requirements An exciting position has arisen within the Drug Development Unit (DDU) in the Division of Clinical Studies at the Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden Hospital. We are a rapidly expanding, world class Phase 1 clinical trials unit based within the Royal Marsden Hospital, for the development of novel cancer therapeutics in early phase clinical trials which we believe will improve the care of cancer patients. We are looking for a Personal Assistant, to support Professor Juanita Lopez within the Drug Development Unit. The post holder is required to provide assistance with managing schedules, handling and responding to correspondences, making travel & hotel arrangements, organising conferences and meetings, preparing documentation & taking minutes where appropriate. In addition, the post holder is also required to provide general administrative support to the operations within the DDU. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. Appointment will be on a one-year contract in the first instance. To apply for this post, please submit a CV and complete a supporting statement detailing reasons why you are applying for the post. All applications must be submitted online, via the e-recruitment system. Please click on the apply button and follow the instructions. Due to the high volumes of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close the advert before the published closing date once we have received a sufficient number of applications. Therefore, we advise that you to submit your application, as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Department/Directorate Information The Drug Development Unit, (DDU) at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, is a world-leading centre for early-phase oncology trials, translating cutting-edge science into first-in-human clinical trials. Through close integration of laboratory and clinical expertise, the Unit supports the functions of sponsoring early phase trials through Investigator Initiated Trials Team, as well as, delivers academic and industry sponsored trials. Our mission is to fast-track the development of anti-cancer drugs, designed and synthesised at The ICR, or developed by CRUK scientists, or developed by industry collaborators, in order to rapidly impact the care of cancer patients. The DDU has been involved in the development of many hundreds of novel agents including several practice-changing cancer drugs. The DDU is one of the Experimental Cancer Medicine Centres in the UK, part of the CRUK Convergence Science Centre and the Early Phase Drug Development Theme within the ICR-RM NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC). The DDU has multiple academic and industry collaborations both nationally and internationally, to optimally serve our patients. The Unit is led by Professor Johann de Bono and Professor Udai Banerji.
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 have particular work on the analysis of spatial data (including multiplex immunohistochemistry, H&Es and spatial transcriptomics) and will be required to stay abreast of new developments in the field and provide training to colleagues. 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].
Data Manager
The ICR's Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit (ICR-CTSU) is looking for a clinical data manager to join its team at ICR’s Sutton site in Surrey. ICR-CTSU runs a diverse portfolio of national and international phase III multicentre randomised controlled trials, and phase II trials of targeted treatments with a focus on breast, urological and head and neck cancer treatments. This post offers an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and well-motivated graduate to work in a dynamic and supportive academic environment at one of the leading cancer clinical trials units. The successful applicant will work with Trial Managers, Statisticians and Administrators and duties will include: • Liaising with hospitals to collect patient data according to protocol • Overseeing biological sample collection at sites • Reviewing and cleaning data submitted by sites • Assisting with site monitoring visits Key Requirements Applicants should hold a first degree (or equivalent qualification), have excellent organisational and communication skills, be computer literate and interested in cancer research. Attention to detail is essential. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. Further detail 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 only if the role allows. Flexible working options may be considered. Informal enquiries may be made by emailing [email protected]