Biological Sciences Opportunity at Cancer Research UK | Mechanistic Pharmacology Placement | £24,000 Salary

Biological Sciences Opportunity at Cancer Research UK | Mechanistic Pharmacology Placement | £24,000 Salary

How do scientists investigate whether a compound could become a new cancer medicine? This biological sciences opportunity at Cancer Research UK offers second-year undergraduates hands-on experience in mechanistic pharmacology and drug discovery. Based at Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, the 52-week laboratory placement starts in September 2027, with the exact start date negotiable.

• Position: Student Placement – Mechanistic Pharmacology
• Location: Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
• Job Requisition ID: R034569
• Directorate: Research & Innovation

About The Organization

Cancer Research UK is a medical research charity focused on beating cancer. Cancer Research Horizons, its drug discovery and translation organization, combines cancer biology expertise, academic collaborations, technology platforms, and clinical knowledge to advance potential cancer treatments.

Biological Sciences Opportunity Description

The successful applicant will undertake a laboratory research project designed to expand the Mechanistic Pharmacology team’s technical capabilities while addressing challenges relevant to drug discovery.

The team uses biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based approaches to understand targets and compounds, develop assays, investigate mechanisms of action, and support small-molecule discovery projects. Working alongside experienced scientists, the placement student will develop in vitro laboratory skills and gain experience analyzing and presenting scientific data.

Biological Sciences Opportunity – Key Responsibilities

• Conduct supervised research using established methods, with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Exercise technical judgment when performing experiments and interpreting results.
• Analyze experimental findings and develop hypotheses.
• Follow relevant scientific literature and developments.
• Prepare verbal and written reports or presentations.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks and research data to required standards.
• Follow health and safety requirements, including COSHH regulations.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Cancer Research Horizons and seek guidance when needed.

Educational Requirements and Eligibility For Biological Sciences Opportunity

• Be in the second year of undergraduate study at university, ideally studying Biological Sciences or a related science degree.
• Expect to achieve a 2:1 or grade B in second-year results.
• Hold three A levels or equivalent at grade B or above, preferably including a biological science.
• Be available to start in September 2027, with the exact date negotiable.
• Have the right to live and work in the UK without restriction.
• Be 18 or older, as the organization cannot recruit applicants below this age.

Eligibility Note: Graduates and PhD students will not be considered for this placement scheme. Applicants requiring a UK work permit or visa sponsorship are not eligible.

Skills and Qualifications

• Ability to communicate research data and progress clearly.
• Analytical skills and willingness to contribute to experimental design.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, and commitment to quality.
• A collaborative approach and ability to build productive working relationships.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and integrity.

Salary and Development For Biological Sciences Opportunity

The placement offers a £24,000 salary plus benefits. Participants receive supervised research experience, opportunities to develop laboratory and professional skills, and access to wellbeing and career development support.

Application Details

• Application Deadline: November 8, 2026, at 11:55 PM UK time.
• Duration: 52 weeks, fixed-term.
• Work Schedule: Full-time, 35 hours per week; laboratory-based.
• Start Date: September 2027, negotiable.
• Selection Process: Screening call followed by a competency-based interview process; shortlisted candidates may also complete assessment exercises.
• Application Requirements: Submit a CV, complete the work history section, and answer the screening questions. CVs are only visible to recruiters at the interview stage.

Interested in exploring how laboratory evidence guides cancer drug discovery? This biological sciences opportunity at Cancer Research UK combines a year of practical research with scientific supervision and professional development. If you meet the second-year study, academic, and UK work authorization requirements, submit your application before November 8, 2026.

APPLY ONLINE HERE