Additional career support for researchers
Benefits of developing your research career with us
By working with us, you'll be part of a network of 4,000 scientists and clinicians supported by state-of-the-art facilities covering the full breadth of cancer research and the translational pipeline. You'll also have access to our extensive portfolio of partnerships with organisations around the world.
We develop outstanding cancer researchers through more than just funding. By working with us, you can benefit from support that will help you to develop independence as a leader and progress your career.
Flexible research careers
We recognise the challenges faced when managing a research career alongside other responsibilities, and we understand our researchers may follow varied career paths to become the research leaders of tomorrow. Our flexible funding policies are designed to accommodate your circumstances.
Accelerated UK work visa route
If you require a visa to work in the UK, you may qualify for the accelerated Global Talent Visa route. Many Cancer Research UK fellowships, awards, and posts funded through our grants are eligible for the Global Talent Visa. Cancer Research UK is recognised as an endorsed funder under the Endorsed Funder Route.
We've shared an update on the Global Talent Visa looking at why it’s a useful route for researchers to use, addressing some misconceptions about it, and clarifying how it’s accessible for Cancer Research UK-funded researchers at different career stages.
Training and development
We can help you develop the skills needed to run your own lab. We also share other training opportunities across the network and work closely with host institutions to ensure you have the support you need.
EMBO lab management course
We support researchers to access lab management and other training courses designed to meet the specific needs of researchers.
StellarHE programme
We offer sponsorships on this course for fellows from ethnic minority backgrounds aspiring to senior leadership.
Bridge to academic leadership programme
Through this programme, we're supporting the next generation of cancer research leaders and guide postdocs in their transition to an independent group leader position.
Observer scheme
Early- to mid-career researchers can apply for the opportunity to observe our panel and committee meetings across our funding remit.
Entrepreneurial support
Our translational arm, Cancer Research Horizons, offers training and support that will help you build a business and translate your research into real-world impact for patients.
Mentoring and coaching
We provide opportunities for you to gain insight from experienced researchers and other inspiring leaders, and also for you to develop your own skills by mentoring the next generation of potential researchers.
Networking and events
We host a wide range of research events and conferences with world-leading senior scientists. Through our funded research network we also have regular meetings for different groups of researchers which provide an excellent opportunity to network with your peers.
Research events and conferences
We host research conferences, meetings and workshops. Join us to hear about the latest science, present your own research and network with our exceptional community.
All Fellows
We host an All Fellows meeting every two years. Our fellows also have access to an online platform to connect with each other and share training and development opportunities.
Clinician researchers meeting
We host a meeting for our funded clinical researchers every two years. Join in to network with your colleagues and discuss solutions to common challenges clinical academics face.
Postdoc futures
We host an event every two years to empower postdocs to take the next step in their career. We expect the next event to be held in 2026.
Stay in touch
Contact us
Our research careers programme managers are here to help our research community and advise researchers who are interested in making an application.
Research careers column
Our columnists are getting into the weeds of what makes research careers more productive, more rewarding and more successful.
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