Research Funding Officer (Operations)

World Cancer Research Fund International

Location:	London, Hybrid
Salary:	£28,000 to £30,000 per annum, plus benefits
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On:	20th March 2026
Closes:	15th April 2026

18-month Fixed-Term Contract

London N1

Full time – 37.5 hours a week

We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're required to come into the office at least 2 days per week currently Tuesday, and Wednesday or Thursday.

Closing date: 17:00, 15th April 2026

Interviews (in-person): w/c 27th April 2026

Second interviews: w/c 4th May 2026

Preventing cancer, saving lives

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to contribute to international research funding programmes and gain insight into how cancer prevention research is supported and delivered?

We are seeking a Research Funding Officer (Operations) to support the delivery of our research funding programmes, with a particular focus on the integration of the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) grant programme into the WCRF International portfolio. This is a fixed-term role for 18 months.

In this role, you will support the operational delivery of WCRF International’s grant programmes across both pre-award and post-award activities. You will contribute to the administration of grant calls, respond to applicant queries, process applications, support peer review and Panel meetings, and help maintain and develop our grant management system. You will also track research outputs, maintain grant records and contribute to internal reporting and analysis.

You will have a relevant scientific background (e.g. nutrition, public health, cancer biology or a related discipline), with experience working in a research or administrative environment (ideally within academia or research management). You will have a strong analytical mindset and be comfortable working with data, systems and tracking processes, and be highly organised, with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong communication skills and confidence interacting with a range of stakeholders is key as is being proactive, adaptable and able to work as part of a small, collaborative team.

This role offers an excellent opportunity for someone with strong organisational and analytical skills who enjoys working with data and complex processes. The postholder will gain a unique insight into the full research funding lifecycle, supporting both the pre-award and post-award stages of international grant programmes. Working closely with experienced colleagues across the Research Funding team, the successful candidate will develop a strong understanding of how research funding programmes are designed, delivered and monitored, while applying their scientific knowledge to real-world research projects. The role provides valuable experience in grant management, research administration and data analysis, offering a strong foundation for a future career in research funding and management, the charity or policy sector, or academic research.

Application Details: If you are interested in this role and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) via the 'Apply' button above (e:hr@wcrf.org) or HR, WCRF International, 140 Pentonville Road, London, N1 9FW by the closing date. You must have current right to work in the UK.

Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF International and equip you for the role. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.