At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in cancer immunology and develop groundbreaking therapies.
- Company: Join the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, a leader in cancer research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, core funding, mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with exceptional opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research and collaborate with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in immunology or related field with strong research experience.
The predicted salary is between 61944 - 81508 £ per year.
Join the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute. The Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute (CRUK MI) is seeking exceptional early-career and senior scientists, including clinician scientists, to establish bold and innovative research programmes as independent Group Leaders. Situated within one of Europe's largest and most dynamic cancer research ecosystems, successful candidates will join an outstanding collaborative environment spanning the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC), The University of Manchester, the Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, the MRC Centre of Research Excellence in Exposome Immunology, and the Christie NHS Foundation Trust.
This unique ecosystem integrates fundamental immunology, cancer biology, computational science, experimental medicine and clinical translation, creating exceptional opportunities to pursue high-impact discovery research while accelerating the development of new immunotherapies, biomarkers and advanced cellular and genetic therapies for patients with cancer. CRUK Manchester Institute has established internationally recognized strengths in cancer immunology and immuno-oncology, including tumour immune regulation, mechanisms of anti-tumour immunity, immunotherapy resistance, tumour microenvironment biology, inflammatory cell death and tissue adaptation.
Successful candidates will join a vibrant and highly collaborative immunology community and will have opportunities to interact closely with leading investigators across the Manchester ecosystem, including groups led by Santiago Zelenay, Evangelos Giampazolias, Jonathan Lim and colleagues across the Lydia Becker Institute and the MRC Centre of Research Excellence in Exposome Immunology. We are seeking applicants with expertise in cancer immunology, including anti-tumour immunity, immunotherapy, inflammation, stromal and immune interactions within the tumour microenvironment, advanced therapeutic approaches, and systems and computational immunology.
We particularly welcome ambitious and innovative research programmes that combine technical excellence and interdisciplinary approaches to address fundamental and translational questions in cancer biology and strengthen our internationally recognized research environment in cancer immunology and immuno-oncology.
What We Offer
- Core funding is provided to every Group Leader whilst they hold their position at the Institute.
- As a Group Leader, you will receive a substantial package of support, including:
- Funding for two postdoctoral scientists, one technician and two PhD students, together with associated research running costs.
- Dedicated laboratory space within the Paterson Cancer Research Building/Oglesby Cancer Research Building.
- Access to comprehensive state-of-the-art scientific technology platforms and core facilities.
- Access to the Manchester Cancer Research Centre Biobank and associated translational research resources drawing on patient samples from NHS Trusts across Greater Manchester, including The Christie.
- Outstanding opportunities for collaboration across CRUK MI, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and The University of Manchester.
- Expert mentorship and support for career development and scientific leadership.
- Dedicated grant development and review support.
- Research governance, integrity and regulatory support through experienced professional teams.
- A highly collaborative environment built around team science and multidisciplinary research.
This substantial package enables researchers to focus on ambitious and innovative science from day one while benefiting from Cancer Research UK's long-term investment in Manchester's cancer research ecosystem.
Translation and Clinical Impact
A defining strength of Manchester is the close integration of discovery science with clinical research and patient care. Through partnership with The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, one of Europe's largest comprehensive cancer centres, successful candidates will have access to exceptional opportunities for translational and clinical research. These include experimental medicine programmes, window-of-opportunity studies, biomarker-led clinical trials, advanced therapy development and early-phase clinical studies.
Manchester provides a uniquely integrated environment for researchers interested in translating discoveries in tumour immunology into novel therapeutic approaches, including cellular therapies, immune engineering, in vivo genetic engineering, immunomodulatory biologics and precision immunotherapy strategies. The close interaction between discovery scientists, clinician scientists, translational researchers and trialists creates an outstanding platform for moving innovative concepts rapidly from laboratory investigation to patient benefit.
Researchers will also benefit from access to major strategic initiatives across the Manchester ecosystem, including:
- MANIFEST, the national Manchester platform for immunotherapy research and innovation.
- RISE, a multidisciplinary programme developing next-generation approaches to reduce immune stress and cytokine release associated with advanced therapies.
- The MRC Centre of Research Excellence in Exposome Immunology, which is establishing internationally leading capabilities for understanding how environmental exposures shape immune function across health and disease.
Together, these initiatives provide unique opportunities to pursue collaborative and interdisciplinary research at scale.
Why Manchester?
The Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute is a Research Institute of The University of Manchester and is core funded by Cancer Research UK. In 2023, the Institute relocated to the new state-of-the-art Paterson Cancer Research Building, a purpose-built facility designed to accelerate multidisciplinary cancer research and foster collaboration between discovery scientists, computational researchers, clinicians and translational investigators. The Institute sits on The Christie campus alongside researchers from The University of Manchester's Division of Cancer Sciences and the Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, creating one of the most concentrated and integrated cancer research environments in Europe.
Manchester uniquely combines:
- World-leading cancer biology and translational research.
- One of Europe's largest comprehensive cancer centres.
- Extensive experimental medicine and clinical trials infrastructure.
- A rapidly expanding AI and machine learning ecosystem.
- Strong partnerships between academia, healthcare and industry.
- Access to large and diverse patient populations.
- Exceptional opportunities for multidisciplinary collaboration.
Together, these strengths create an unparalleled environment for developing next-generation computational approaches that can transform cancer research and patient care.
Group Leaders – Immunology
Salary range: £61,944 – £81,508* per annum (dependent upon experience)
Duration: Five-year fixed-term appointment** (in the first instance)
For clinically qualified candidates, salary is dependent upon experience and clinical duties (not expected to exceed the equivalent of one clinic day per week).
What We Offer
- Up to seven years of CRUK core-funded support.
- Initial appointment on a five-year fixed-term contract.
- Mid-term review at year four to support future career development and progression.
- Opportunity for promotion to Senior Group Leader following successful review and approval processes (permanent appointment subject to successful Quinquennial Reviews).
- High-quality laboratory space.
- Expert and strong mentorship and support for career development and scientific leadership from senior faculty and Institute committees.
- Specific training and leadership development opportunities for new group leaders.
- Opportunity for group expansion through successful external funding applications.
- Grant development support from the Institute's Grants Advisor and Grants Committee.
- Research governance and integrity support through the Institute's Scientific Administration team.
- A collegial environment with a strong ethos of team science.
About You
You will hold a PhD in immunology or a related discipline and have significant and productive postdoctoral research experience relevant to cancer immunology. You will have:
- A strong track record of impactful publications.
- Evidence of scientific creativity and innovation.
- The ability to develop and deliver an ambitious and feasible independent research programme.
- Clear and compelling research plans addressing important questions in cancer immunology.
- Excellent communication and collaborative skills.
- Evidence of, or strong potential for, success in securing competitive research funding.
Prior demonstration of research independence would be advantageous.
Senior Group Leaders – Immunology
Salary range: £80,000 – £130,000* per annum (dependent upon experience)
Duration: Permanent (subject to successful Quinquennial Reviews)
For clinically qualified candidates, salary is dependent upon experience and clinical duties (not expected to exceed the equivalent of one clinic day per week).
What We Offer
- CRUK core-funded support.
- Permanent appointment (subject to successful Quinquennial Reviews).
- High-quality laboratory space.
- Opportunities for programme expansion through external funding.
- Dedicated grant development and review support.
- Research governance and integrity support.
- Access to outstanding scientific infrastructure and collaborative networks.
- A collegial environment and culture of scientific excellence and team science.
About You
You will hold a PhD in immunology or a discipline relevant to cancer research and have an internationally recognized track record of scientific achievement. You will have:
- Extensive research experience and scientific leadership.
- International standing in cancer immunology or a closely related field.
- A record of high-impact publications.
- Evidence of sustained success in securing competitive external funding.
- Experience building, leading and mentoring successful research teams.
- A strong commitment to collaborative science.
Expertise in cancer immunology, including anti-tumour immunity, immunotherapy, inflammation, stromal and immune interactions within the tumour microenvironment, advanced therapeutic approaches, and systems-level analysis of tumour–immune ecosystems is particularly welcomed.
How to Apply?
To apply for this position please visit our website: https://www.cruk.manchester.ac.uk/careers/ Applications should include:
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae including publication list
- Future Research Plan (maximum three pages)
- Summary of up to three key publications (maximum one page)
- Contact details for three referees
Informal enquiries are welcomed and may be addressed to any of the Institute's Group Leaders or to the Director: director@cruk.manchester.ac.uk
Closing Date Sunday 2 August 2026
Please note this vacancy will close for applications at 18:00 hours on the closing date specified.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and communities and encourage applications from candidates who reflect diversity in its broadest sense. All appointments are made on merit.
Group Leaders and Senior Group Leaders – Immunology employer: CRUK Manchester Institute
The Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute offers an exceptional environment for Group Leaders and Senior Group Leaders in Immunology, providing substantial core funding, dedicated laboratory space, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and mentorship, employees benefit from a vibrant research community and unique opportunities to engage in high-impact translational research alongside leading experts in one of Europe's largest cancer research ecosystems. This supportive culture fosters professional growth and innovation, making it an outstanding employer for those passionate about advancing cancer research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Leaders and Senior Group Leaders – Immunology
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We think you need these skills to ace Group Leaders and Senior Group Leaders – Immunology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show CRUK Manchester Institute that you have the hands-on skills they need.
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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that CRUK Manchester Institute does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at CRUK Manchester Institute
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at CRUK Manchester Institute. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into CRUK Manchester Institute's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at CRUK Manchester Institute. This shows your passion for the industry!
