At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead oncology clinical trials and provide statistical expertise in a dynamic research environment.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a diverse community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41+ days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborate with top professionals and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while advancing your academic career.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification in Medical Statistics and extensive oncology trial experience required.
The predicted salary is between 71466 - 75915 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university. We offer a range of benefits including competitive annual leave, a generous pension scheme, flexible working opportunities, development and wellbeing support, retail discounts, and more.
A non-clinical position has arisen for a clinical trial statistician to be the academic lead and provide senior oversight and leadership to the Sheffield Clinical Trials Research Unit (CTRU) oncology clinical trials portfolio. Sheffield CTRU has received substantial infrastructure funding to grow and diversify its portfolio of multi-centre cancer clinical trials. The post holder will lead trial design, grant development and submission, and senior-level study implementation with a specific focus on oncology-based CTIMPs (Clinical Trials of Investigational Medicinal Products).
You will work closely with the CTRU Director, CTRU staff and Chief Investigators to secure research funding and ensure that studies under your supervision are implemented in accordance with randomised controlled trial scientific principles, the study protocols, and regulatory standards. You will provide academic and methodological leadership to all specialist oncology studies within the CTRU’s portfolio, ensuring studies are designed, conducted, analysed and reported to high standards and compliant with regulatory frameworks.
Experience of the design, management, conduct/implementation, analysis and reporting of multi-centre randomised controlled trials is essential. A proven track record of working within the oncology research field is required, with a deep understanding of the Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations as they apply to complex cancer research.
Main Duties And Responsibilities- Providing senior oversight and leadership to the CTRU oncology clinical trials portfolio, including the Yorkshire Cancer Research (YCR) Infrastructure grant, ensuring milestones and deliverables are met.
- Providing statistical input for the design, conduct, implementation, analysis and reporting of oncology trials across the CTRU portfolio.
- Driving methodological research to advance efficient and patient-centred trial designs.
- Collaborating within a multidisciplinary team including clinicians, statisticians, trial managers and other research professionals.
- Developing a specialist portfolio of oncology research and acting as CTRU Lead in collaboration with clinical investigators to design studies, submit research applications, and secure external research income/grant funding.
- Ensuring cancer studies led by the CTRU are conducted in accordance with randomised controlled trial principles and the protocol.
- Overseeing Quality Assurance processes within the CTRU.
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards for clinical trials.
- Supporting preparation for and response to MHRA inspections.
- Leading the preparation and publication of papers for high-impact oncology and academic journals with originality, significance and rigour.
- Leading on the presentation of findings at international cancer conferences and academic forums.
- Using methodological expertise to undertake research and translational activities with demonstrable impact.
- Undertaking undergraduate and post-graduate teaching, supervision and examining within the School of Medicine and Population Health.
- Contributing as a researcher, teacher and leader in line with the University’s Academic Career Pathway Framework (ACP).
- Making ethical decisions and embedding the University sustainability strategy into working activities where possible.
- Any other duties, commensurate with the grade of the post.
We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds. Please ensure you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Academic Qualifications:- Postgraduate qualification in Medical Statistics or a closely related discipline.
- Extensive experience in design and analysis of clinical trials within oncology, with an understanding of cancer-specific trial complexities.
- Expertise in complex and innovative trial designs used in oncology (e.g., adaptive designs, master protocols, umbrella/basket trials, dose-finding designs, biomarker-driven trials).
- Proven track record as lead statistician on multi-centre oncology clinical trials.
- Experience working on CTIMPs and knowledge of The Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations 2004 and ICH GCP.
- Experience collaborating with senior clinical investigators to design, develop, and secure major research grants (e.g., NIHR, CRUK, MRC or major charities).
- A strong track record of high-quality, peer-reviewed clinical trial research papers.
- Experience supervising junior staff and mentoring early-career researchers in trial development.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills with Chief Investigators, trial funders and PPI panels.
- Strategic problem-solving abilities for complex trial challenges with a view to long-term sustainability and strategic aims.
- Grade: Professor up to Band 1.4
- Salary: £71,466 to £75,915
- Work arrangement: Full-time / Part-time (min 0.6 FTE)
- Duration: Permanent
- Line manager: CTRU Director
- Direct reports: Trial Manager, Study Managers, Study Delivery Staff
Our website: https://sheffield.ac.uk/ctru
For informal enquiries about this job contact Prof Matt Hammond, Director of the Sheffield Clinical Trials Research Unit: matthew.hammond@sheffield.ac.uk
What We Offer- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holidays (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts for shopping, dining and travel.
- A variety of staff networks supporting inclusion and development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
- Recognition Awards for staff who go above and beyond.
- Access to development and mentoring schemes; integrated with Academic Career Pathways.
- Family-friendly policies and support for parenting, caring, menopause, fertility treatment, and related matters.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Closing Date: 02/06/2026
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our vision focuses on building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone. Details at sheffield.ac.uk/vision.
Professor in Medical Statistics and Academic Lead for Clinical Trials in Oncology employer: The University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Professor in Medical Statistics and Academic Lead for Clinical Trials in Oncology
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the oncology and clinical trials field. Attend conferences, seminars, or even local meet-ups to get your name out there. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous work in clinical trials and oncology research. This can include publications, presentations, or even case studies. When you meet potential employers, having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply, engage! When you find a role that excites you, reach out to the hiring manager or team members via LinkedIn. Ask insightful questions about the role or the team. This shows your genuine interest and can help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep it flexible! Be open to different working arrangements, whether it's part-time or hybrid roles. The University of Sheffield values flexibility, so showing that you're adaptable can make you a more attractive candidate. Plus, don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Professor in Medical Statistics and Academic Lead for Clinical Trials in Oncology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific requirements of the role. We want to see how you fit into our vision and values at Sheffield, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on your work in oncology and clinical trials. We’re looking for a proven track record, so be specific about your contributions and achievements in previous roles. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand, so make it easy for us to see your strengths.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits there.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of clinical trials, especially in oncology. Familiarise yourself with the latest methodologies and regulations, like the Medicines for Human Use (Clinical Trials) Regulations. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an academic lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed projects or mentored junior staff. Highlight how you’ve driven research initiatives and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in complex trial challenges. Think of specific scenarios where you had to make strategic decisions or adapt to unexpected changes in a trial. Practising these responses will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Sheffield Clinical Trials Research Unit and its future direction. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the university's values align with yours. Plus, it’s a great way to build rapport with the interview panel.