Academic ConnectJunior Group Leader (Open Call) (Fixed Term)
Join us at the world-leading CRUK Cambridge Institute. We're a unique department of the University of Cambridge, core funded by Cancer Research UK's charitable activities, and we're eagerly searching for our new Junior Group Leader.
This post carries a significant package of support for five years in the first instance, equivalent to that of an investigator grant (approximately £2.5million over five years).
The primary role of this position is to develop and lead a translational research team focussed on: a) the understanding an area of cancer biology and/or b) the development of new therapies for these devastating diseases.
For this position, we're looking to nurture and support an early-career leader with a strong and exciting vision to pursue their new idea. Though we are open to applications in all areas of cancer discovery research, we do focus mainly on solid cancers. We would especially welcome applications that complement the interests of our faculty, establish new connections to strong clinical programs in Cambridge, or in emerging areas, such as the use of AI/ML in cancer discovery research. Proposed research programmes relating to prostate cancers and lung cancers could be highly desirable.
The diverse composition of our faculty evidences our strong track-record of scientists transposing skills garnered in other areas, to cancer research. Among these, we boast leaders in chemistry, physics, veterinary medicine, and virtual reality, alongside practicing clinicians. We particularly welcome candidates who can bring a fresh perspective to their field by applying expertise gained in other areas of scientific research. Presently we have 18 Group Leaders plus 8 additional Affiliated Clinical Faculty.
The post holder will be expected to lead a world-leading independent research programme that contributes to the overall goals of the CRUK Cambridge Institute. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, establishing a strong track record of high impact research papers, providing academic training and supervision for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, establishing research collaborations, presenting research outcomes to international audiences, applying for grant funding, and managing the group budget and resources.
The Cambridge Institute is one of four Institutes Core-Funded by CRUK. This means that they provide a block grant each year that enables us not only to provide direct, flexible support to each of our group leaders, but also to maintain world-class research support facilities. Unlike traditional start-up packages, core funding is provided to every group leader as long as they hold their position in the institute. This post carries a significant package of support for 5 years in the first instance.
Applicants are requested to submit their CV, a covering letter, and a three-page research proposal.
Thinking about applying? In the following video, a few of our Group Leaders break down what makes a strong application, from writing a compelling research proposal to handling a "chalk talk": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOW9DUoH1Hs
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 5 years in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) and a security check.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
If you have any queries regarding the application process or queries relating to the role, please contact: mailbox-hr@cruk.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference SW46627 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key information
Department/location
Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute
Salary
£47,389-£59,966 + CRUK Enhancement
Reference
SW46627
Category
Date published
8 August 2025
Closing date
7 September 2025
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