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- Tasks: Lead and innovate world-class scientific core facilities for cancer research.
- Company: Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, a leader in scientific infrastructure.
- Benefits: Influential role with opportunities for strategic impact and collaboration.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to advancing cancer discovery.
- Why this job: Shape the future of cancer research and drive transformative change.
- Qualifications: PhD in life sciences or equivalent experience in scientific operations.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute is seeking an exceptional scientific leader to shape and deliver the future of its world-class core facilities. This is a rare and influential opportunity to lead an integrated portfolio of advanced technology platforms that underpin cutting-edge cancer discovery and translational research, and to position the Institute as a global leader in scientific infrastructure and services.
Reporting directly to the Institute Director, you will provide strategic, scientific, and operational leadership across all core facilities, developing and implementing a bold, long-term vision for integrated, data-driven, and responsive scientific services. Your work will directly enable researchers to address the most challenging questions in cancer biology.
We are looking for a leader with substantial experience managing complex scientific operations at scale — whether in an academic, industry, or major research organisations. You will bring the credibility, authority, and ambition to drive transformation, whilst working collaboratively with faculty and maintaining the independence to innovate in service delivery, technology investment, and organisational design.
This role offers significant scope to influence institutional strategy, guide major capital investment decisions, secure and deploy strategic funding, develop external partnerships, and build a high-performing culture across the facilities.
About you
- PhD in a relevant life sciences discipline or equivalent senior experience in scientific operations
- Substantial experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary scientific facilities or research infrastructure
- Demonstrated success in managing large-scale operations, budgets, and capital investments
- Experience securing and managing strategic funding for infrastructure or major initiatives
- Experience developing and executing strategic plans and organisational change
- Strong understanding of the needs of modern biomedical or translational research
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
We are particularly interested in candidates who bring:
- A track record of delivering operational excellence in either academia, industry, or major research organisations
- Experience transforming services, infrastructure, or technology platforms
- A bold vision for how scientific facilities can accelerate discovery and translation
- The ability to balance strategic thinking with practical execution
- Credibility to engage effectively with senior scientists, institutional leaders, funders, and external partners
About the Scientific Core Facilities
Director of Scientific Core Facilities and Services employer: Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute
Contact Detail:
Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Scientific Core Facilities and Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the scientific community, attend relevant conferences, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t underestimate the power of personal connections when it comes to landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your past achievements in managing complex scientific operations. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your capability to lead at a high level.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to appear. Reach out directly to organisations like the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute and express your interest in potential opportunities. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by understanding the organisation’s vision and how you can contribute. Research their current projects and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see candidates who are genuinely excited about making an impact!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Scientific Core Facilities and Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in scientific operations and leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Director of Scientific Core Facilities and Services.
Showcase Your Vision: Don’t just list your achievements; share your bold vision for how you can enhance our core facilities. We’re looking for innovative ideas that can drive transformation and accelerate cancer research.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with faculty and stakeholders. We value leaders who can engage effectively with diverse teams and foster a high-performing culture across facilities.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. This helps us keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the latest advancements in cancer research and the specific technologies used in core facilities. Brush up on your knowledge about the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute and its mission, as this will show your genuine interest and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading complex scientific operations. Think about times when you've successfully managed teams, budgets, or strategic initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and drive transformation within the organisation.
✨Strategic Vision is Key
Articulate a bold vision for the future of scientific facilities and how they can enhance cancer discovery. Be prepared to discuss your ideas on integrating data-driven approaches and innovative service delivery, as this aligns with the expectations of the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your exceptional communication skills by discussing how you've effectively engaged with various stakeholders in the past. Prepare to talk about your experience in building partnerships and securing funding, as these are crucial for the success of the core facilities.