Scientist (Discovery Biology) in Cambridge

Cancer Research Horizons is seeking an experienced Scientist to join our Discovery Biology function. The Discovery Biology group focuses on defining key biological insights needed to advance drug discovery projects, leading biomarker discovery, investigating disease pathways and drug mechanisms of action, and providing experimental evidence to guide early clinical strategy.

In this role, you will:

• Perform and interpret gene perturbation studies using tool compounds and gene editing approaches to confirm disease associations.
• Design and execute mechanistic studies to elucidate drug-target engagement and downstream signalling.
• Identify and validate pharmacodynamic (PD) biomarkers to support preclinical-to-clinical translation.
• Design studies testing Standard of Care (SOC) combinations and investigate emergent drug resistance mechanisms to inform clinical positioning.
• Conduct and interpret phenotypic analysis in cancer and immune cells including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and colony formation.
• Demonstrate ability to solve problems and develop solutions independently.
• Work collaboratively within the Bioscience team and interact with multi-disciplinary research teams.
• Communicate efficiently, interpret and summarise data, and present to different audiences.
• Prioritise work according to project goals and take responsibility for the timely delivery of objectives.

We are looking for candidates with:

• An advanced degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) in Biological Science or related discipline.
• Previous working experience within a multi-disciplinary drug discovery environment or translational academic programmes.
• Strong laboratory skills including molecular and cellular biology techniques (including siRNA, shRNA, CRISPR), use of tool compounds, and development of robust assays.
• Strong understanding of tumour biology, with a track record in elucidating mechanism of action and driving biomarker discovery.
• Ability to integrate complex omics biological datasets to inform progression of oncology therapeutic programmes.
• Experience with high-content imaging and automated image analysis would be highly advantageous.
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills, with integrity, commitment, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and consistency at all times.

Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do:

• Bold: Act with ambition, courage, and determination.
• Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism.
• Human: Act to have a positive impact on people.
• Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively.

If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience, we’d still love to hear from you.

We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities, and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career, and achieve your personal wellbeing goals.

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won’t be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to assess you fairly and objectively.

For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us at recruitment@cancer.org.uk.

We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented.