Group Leader in Cancer Stem Cell Biology

The Institute of Cancer Research; Sutton; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cancer research institute in Sutton is seeking a Group Leader in Cancer Stem Cell Biology. The successful candidate will advance innovative cancer research, significantly contribute to understanding cancer stem cell biology, and lead projects addressing tumor relapse and disease progression. With a competitive salary between £39,520 and £41,600 per annum and a supportive work environment, this role invites applications from talented researchers passionate about cancer biology and seeking to make impactful advancements.

Benefits

Access to staff benefits

Support for overseas applicants

Inclusive work environment

Qualifications

• Internationally recognized track record in leading cancer stem cell biology research.
• Outstanding postdoctoral experience for junior candidates.
• Clear potential to secure competitive external funding.

Responsibilities

• Play a pivotal role in advancing cancer research.
• Contribute to understanding of cancer stem cells.
• Engage in research that addresses tumor relapse and metastasis.

Skills

Leadership in cancer research

High-quality publications

Research funding success

Compelling research vision

Education

PhD in relevant field

Job description

Group Leader in Cancer Stem Cell Biology

Key Information

Salary: For Career Faculty, a competitive salary will be determined by the CEO of the ICR. For Career Development Faculty, salary is based on the Career Development Faculty Scale. Commencement of the salary range is subject to comparables, skills and experience. Future progression is based on annual performance review.

We welcome applications at both the Career Development Faculty and Career Faculty levels.

Duration of Contract: Permanent

Hours per week: 35 hours per week (Full Time)

This role is eligible for ICR Sponsorship. Support will be provided for costs associated with Visa application. If you are considering relocating to the UK, further information can be found here.

Closing date: 16 February 2026

Key Requirements

• Full CV uploaded.
• Lists of major publications, achievements, research grants, distinctions.
• Research plan (five to six pages outlining current research interests and programme for the next 5 years).
• PDF of a maximum of five key publications, or other research outputs that best demonstrate previous productivity.
• Personal statement section of the application form in the format of a covering letter including the names and contact details of three academic referees.

Department/Directorate Information

The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London seeks to appoint a Group Leader in Cancer Stem Cell Biology to play a pivotal role in advancing cutting‑edge cancer research. The position will be based in newly‑refurbished laboratory and office space at our Sutton campus within the Division of Cancer Biology. We welcome applications at both the Career Development Faculty and Career Faculty levels.

The ICR is one of the world’s most influential cancer research institutions, with an outstanding track record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. In addition to being one of the UK’s leading higher education institutions for research quality and impact, the ICR is consistently ranked among the world’s most successful for industry collaboration. As a member institution of the University of London, we also provide postgraduate higher education of international distinction.

One of the ICR’s key research strategies is to defeat cancer by viewing it as a dynamic ecosystem. We aim to solidify our expertise in the biology of cancer stem cells. The postholder will significantly contribute to understanding the underlying biology of cancer stem cells and how this may be exploited to address key questions in tumour relapse, disease progression and metastasis.

Applicants must have an internationally recognised track record of leading research in cancer stem cell biology, demonstrated by high‑quality publications and significant funding success. For more junior candidates, an outstanding postdoctoral track record in cancer research, coupled with a compelling research vision in a strategic area of cancer stem cell biology and clear potential to secure competitive external funding, is essential.

If you would like to informally discuss this position, please contact Professor Chris Jones ([e-mail]), Head of the Division of Cancer Biology at the ICR.

About The Institute of Cancer Research

Why work for us?

As a member of staff, you'll have exclusive access to a range of staff benefits.

The ICR is committed to supporting overseas applicants applying for roles, please click here to find out further information.

The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world's most influential cancer research institutes, with an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. Further information about working at the ICR can be found here.

At the Institute of Cancer Research, we champion diversity as we believe it fuels innovation and drives impactful research. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work.

Don't let a checklist of qualifications hold you back – if you're passionate about the role, we want to hear from you. Your unique experiences and backgrounds contribute to the richness of our team. We are committed to being an equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

£39,520- £41,600 per annum (FTE and pro‑rated for part time)