At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research using patient-derived tumour organoids and tumour–immune models.
- Company: NuCana, a pioneering biotech firm focused on cancer treatment.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for collaboration and impactful research.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities and a chance to publish your findings.
- Why this job: Shape the future of cancer treatment through cutting-edge translational research.
- Qualifications: Medical qualification and PhD or equivalent experience in relevant fields.
The predicted salary is between 36900 - 45100 £ per year.
NuCana is seeking a medically qualified researcher to lead an innovative translational research programme using patient-derived tumour organoids and tumour–immune models. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of clinical oncology, cancer biology, immunology and quantitative science. You will develop clinically relevant experimental platforms, investigate mechanisms of treatment response and resistance, and translate complex findings into biomarker and therapeutic hypotheses.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the scientific strategy for a patient-derived organoid and tumour–immune research programme
- Developing robust, reproducible organoid and immune-cell models
- Designing mechanistic and combination studies using clinically relevant samples
- Integrating imaging, pathology, flow cytometry and multi-omic data
- Identifying potential biomarkers of response and resistance
- Collaborating with clinical, scientific, academic and NHS partners
- Mentoring colleagues and contributing to publications and conference presentations
We’re looking for someone with:
- A medical qualification such as MBBS or MBChB
- A PhD—or equivalent research experience—in cancer biology, tumour immunology, translational oncology or a related discipline
- Experience with patient-derived models, tumour organoids or tumour–immune co-culture
- Strong experimental and quantitative analysis skills
- Experience working responsibly with human tissue or clinical data
- A track record of scientific innovation, collaboration and communication
- The potential to lead a multidisciplinary translational research programme
- Experience in biomarker development, immune-oncology, digital pathology, spatial or single-cell technologies, clinical trial samples, or multi-omic analysis is required.
This research-focused role offers the opportunity to shape an ambitious translational programme, build collaborations and generate evidence with the potential to inform future cancer treatment strategies.
Email applications to: info@nucana.com
Closing date: Friday, 7 August 2026.
Clinical Research Fellow – Translational Immuno-Oncology in Fife employer: NuCana plc
NuCana is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the vibrant city of Edinburgh. As a Clinical Research Fellow, you will not only lead groundbreaking research in translational immuno-oncology but also benefit from extensive mentorship and professional development opportunities. With a focus on scientific excellence and a commitment to improving cancer treatment strategies, NuCana offers a unique environment where your contributions can make a meaningful impact in the field of oncology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Clinical Research Fellow – Translational Immuno-Oncology in Fife
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like NuCana plc. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like NuCana plc!
We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Research Fellow – Translational Immuno-Oncology in Fife
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 NuCana plc that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at NuCana plc.
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 NuCana plc 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 NuCana plc
✨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 NuCana plc. 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 NuCana plc'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 NuCana plc. This shows your passion for the industry!
