Scientific Officer - Structural Chemistry

The Institute of Cancer Research; Sutton; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A leading cancer research institute in Sutton is seeking a Scientific Officer in Structural Chemistry. This role offers the chance to contribute to innovative drug discovery by collaborating with scientists in cutting-edge research. Candidates should hold an accredited degree in chemistry or biochemical sciences, with expertise in analytical techniques. The position is full-time, with a commitment to a collaborative environment and direct influence on cancer treatment development.

Benefits

Access to state-of-the-art facilities

Professional development opportunities

Dynamic research environment

Competitive salary and pension

Qualifications

• Mastery of analytical techniques is essential.
• Experience with liquid chromatography is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of mass spectrometry and NMR theory will be beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Contribute expertise in structural characterization of novel compounds.
• Collaborate closely with medicinal chemists and biologists.
• Maintain optimal performance and reliability of analytical equipment.
• Guide colleagues through training on advanced techniques.
• Develop new methodologies for cancer therapeutic research.

Skills

Analytical skills

Collaboration

Commitment to innovative drug discovery

Education

Accredited degree in chemistry or biochemical sciences

Tools

Liquid chromatography

Mass spectrometry

NMR theory

Job description

Scientific Officer – Structural Chemistry

External Advertising End Date: Advertising End Date:

• Scientific Officer – Structural Chemistry

Key Information

Salary: Commencement on the salary range is subject to comparableskills and experience.

Duration of Contract: Fixed Term until September 2027

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

Location: Sutton

Closing Date: 16/01/26

Under the leadership of Dr Amin Mirza, we are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Scientific Officer to join our cutting‑edge Structural Chemistry Facility, a hub of innovation driving the discovery of new anticancer drugs.

In this exciting role, you will:

Make an impact by contributing your expertise in structural characterisation and physicochemical property analysis of novel compounds.

Collaborate at the forefront of science, working closely with medicinal chemists and biologists to advance drug discovery.

Take ownership of mission‑critical analytical equipment, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

Empower others, providing support and guiding colleagues through training and knowledge sharing, enabling effective use of advanced spectroscopic techniques.

Innovate and lead by developing new methodologies to tackle complex scientific challenges and advance our understanding of cancer therapeutics.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to life‑changing research in a highly collaborative environment, where your expertise will directly influence the development of next‑generation cancer treatments.

About you

The ideal candidate will have an accredited degree in chemistry or biochemical sciences with a solid foundation in analytical techniques. Experience with liquid chromatography is highly desirable, and knowledge of mass spectrometry and NMR theory will be beneficial.

We welcome applicants who are analytical, collaborative, and committed to applying advanced techniques to support innovative drug discovery.

Department/Directorate Information

The Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery, part of the Division of Cancer Therapeutics, is a world‑leading multidisciplinary "bench to bedside" research centre. With over 100 scientists working together, we are dedicated to discovering and developing innovative cancer therapeutics that make a meaningful difference to patients’ lives.

Our mission is clear: to identify high‑quality drug candidates for validated biological targets and progress them into clinical trials. To achieve this, we bring together all the scientific disciplines required for success. Our biologists collaborate closely with world‑class chemists and drug metabolism experts, focusing on innovative molecular targets emerging from cutting‑edge genomics and cell biology research.

This is an exciting and fast‑moving area of research, offering you the chance to work in a collaborative, inclusive environment, using state‑of‑the‑art technologies and equipment to address some of the most significant challenges in oncology.

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 Amin Mirzavia email on [e-mail].

Due to the high volumes of applications that we receive, we reserve the right to close the advert before the published closing date once we have received a sufficient number of applications. We advise you to submit your application as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

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.