Senior Scientist (Discovery Biology)

Cancer Research UK - Cancer Research Horizons (CRH)

200 staff. Limitless Potential. One team. Cancer Research Horizons.

Location: Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge (Lab based – Low Flex)

Salary: £41,700 - £51,300 plus benefits

Contract: 12 Months Fixed term Contract, Full-time (35 hours per week)

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.

We’re looking for a Senior Scientist to join Cancer Research Horizons (CRH) on a 12‑month fixed-term contract. In this role, you’ll drive critical path biology for small and large‑molecule drug discovery, partnering closely with our Target Validation and Translational Biology teams to tackle key biological questions across our project portfolio and make real life impact.

About Cancer Research Horizons: Cancer Research Horizons (CRH) unites Cancer Research UK’s established drug discovery teams. Our mission is to accelerate new cancer treatments by combining unique cancer biology expertise, world-class academic networks, cutting-edge technology, and clinical insights. Based at sites in Cambridge, Glasgow, and Newcastle, our diverse team works to bring forward the day all cancers are cured.

What you will be doing:

• Design, perform and interpret gene perturbation studies using tool therapeutics (compounds or antibodies), gene knockdown and gene editing approaches, as well as rescue studies with over-expression systems in cancer cell lines and immune-relevant co-culture models.
• Conduct and interpret phenotypic analysis in cancer cells including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and colony formation assays, including use of Incucyte analysis.
• Design and execute mechanistic studies to elucidate drug-target engagement and downstream effects on biological pathways.
• Identify and validate pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarkers to support preclinical-to-clinical translation using platforms including:
  • Western blot / capillary electrophoresis
  • RT qPCR and RNA based signatures
  • Immunofluorescence for pathway activation
  • ELISA/MSD/HTRF immunoassays
  • Flow Cytometry
• Review and critically appraise oncology, relevant informatic databases, and related literature.

What we are looking for:

• PhD (or equivalent) in Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline with industry experience. Candidates with a BSc or MSc (or equivalent) will also be considered if they demonstrate substantial and relevant industry experience.
• Deep scientific understanding of:
  • Key oncology areas such as tumour signalling and metabolic pathways, genetics/ epigenetics of cancer associated gene expression, or interactions of the tumour micro-environment.
  • Mechanisms of drug action and drug resistance.
  • Pharmacology concepts.
• Strong experimental design, technical expertise, and scientific problem-solving skills.
• Proven track record developing and applying PD biomarkers, mechanism of action, or clinical positioning studies to support delivery of drug discovery programmes.
  • Experience of DNA plasmid engineering and molecular cloning would be a bonus, including manipulation of DNA promoter elements and complex reporter systems.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey complex data clearly.

Our Values: Bold, Credible, Human, Together. We seek individuals who embody these values to drive progress against our mission.

What will I gain? We offer a supportive working environment, generous benefits, career development opportunities, and high-quality tools to support your work-life balance and career progression.