At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and run assays to support cancer drug discovery projects.
- Company: Join the Institute of Cancer Research, a leading global cancer research institute.
- Benefits: Dynamic research environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while collaborating with top scientists.
- Qualifications: Laboratory experience in small molecule binding and drug discovery is essential.
- Other info: Training in new techniques and support for academic meetings provided.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 ÂŁ per year.
Key Information
- Salary: Commencement on the salary range is subject to comparable skills and experience.
- Reporting to: Dr Caroline Ewens
- Duration of Contract: Fixed Term for 18 months initially
- Hours per week: 35 hours per week (Full Time)
- Location: Sutton
- Closing Date: Sunday 8th February
Under the guidance of Dr Caroline Ewens, we are seeking a highly motivated scientist keen to apply small molecule screening science expertise to help progress our cancer drug discovery projects from assay development and hit finding to candidate selection. The successful candidate will develop and run plate‑based biochemical and/or cellular screening assays to support the identification and characterisation of small‑molecule inhibitors against novel cancer targets using a variety of detection technologies. The successful candidate will be embedded in the Hit Discovery and Structural Design Team but work with multidisciplinary teams.
About you
Key requirements for the role are significant and broad all‑round laboratory experience monitoring small molecule binding and function applied to drug discovery. A good understanding of enzymology would be beneficial, as would prior use of automation equipment for liquid and compound handling used in compound profiling.
Department/Directorate Information
The Hit Discovery and Structural Design Team uses biochemical, cellular and biophysical assays to perform small‑molecule high‑throughput screening and fragment‑based hit discovery, coupled with X‑ray crystallography and electron microscopy to enable structure‑based drug design within the CCDD. These methodologies are underpinned by state‑of‑the‑art protein expression, purification and characterisation capabilities, allowing for the generation of large quantities of high‑quality protein targets. We are based at the ICR Sutton site in the newly opened CCDD building. Pertinent to this role, the team is equipped with high quality tissue culture suites and specialist screening equipment enabling access to numerous technology readouts. Our multimode plate readers include two Pherastars (BMG) and two Envisions (Perkin Elmer). Our biophysical technologies available include DSF/TSA (Nanotemper Prometheus & Biorad 384 well thermal cyclers) and SPR (GE Healthcare T200 & 8K Biacores). The team has access to high content screening microscopes (GE Incell 2200), whole well imaging cytometers (2 Nexcelom Celigos) and live cell imaging instruments (Sartorius Incucyte Zoom and S3). To enable fast and accurate assay preparation, the team possesses a broad range of liquid handling equipment, including pipetting robots, Certus Flex (Gyger), and two Beckman ECHO acoustic dispensing machines integrated onto Access systems for compound dispensing.
You will be joining a team working at the crossroads of the drug discovery activities of the CCDD, where scientific excellence and team science are core values. This position will also offer training in new techniques and support will be available for attending training courses and appropriate academic meetings.
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 Dr Caroline Ewens via Email Caroline.Ewens@icr.ac.uk
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. 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. We look forward to receiving applications from all candidates, wherever in the world they are currently based. We will select those who display the potential to become, or to support, the world leading cancer researchers of the future based on their application and performance at interview. However, we particularly welcome British applicants from black and ethnic minority backgrounds, as they are under‑represented within the ICR and nationwide in STEM roles.
Higher Scientific Officer - Assay Development and Compound Profiling in Sutton employer: The Institute Of Cancer Research
Contact Detail:
The Institute Of Cancer Research Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Scientific Officer - Assay Development and Compound Profiling in Sutton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field, attend relevant events, and connect with researchers at the ICR. Building relationships can open doors and give you insider info on job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of small molecule screening. Be ready to discuss your lab experience and how it relates to the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for cancer research! During interviews, share your enthusiasm for drug discovery and how your skills can contribute to the team’s goals. Let them see your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the amazing team you could be joining.
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Scientific Officer - Assay Development and Compound Profiling in Sutton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for cancer drug discovery! In your application, share why this role excites you and how your background aligns with our mission. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in small molecule screening and assay development. We want to see how your skills match the key requirements listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on those details!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Explain how your previous roles have prepared you for this position and why you’re the perfect fit for our Hit Discovery and Structural Design Team. Keep it engaging and concise!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows that you’re keen to join our team at the ICR!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Institute Of Cancer Research
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of small molecule screening and enzymology. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques you've used in the lab, especially those related to assay development and compound profiling. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Equipment
Since the role involves using advanced technologies like multimode plate readers and liquid handling equipment, it’s a good idea to research these tools beforehand. If you’ve worked with similar equipment, be ready to share your experiences and how they contributed to your previous projects.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This position is all about collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. Think of examples from your past where you successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal. Highlighting your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions for Dr Caroline Ewens
An informal chat with Dr Caroline Ewens can be a great opportunity to learn more about the team and their current projects. Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the work being done at the Institute of Cancer Research. This shows initiative and enthusiasm!