Head of Programme- Somatic Genomics

About The Programme

The Somatic Genomics Programme aims to understand the causes and consequences of somatic mutations and epimutations, and their roles in health and disease. The Programme seeks to decipher fundamental processes of mutation, selection and clonal dynamics, and how these might be harnessed for prevention and therapeutic benefit.

Building on Sanger’s world-leading contributions, the Programme will define a 10–15 year research trajectory across cancer and beyond oncology, with scope for significant technology development and broader impact across medicine and biology.

As Head of Programme, you will:

• Set the scientific vision and strategy for the Programme and lead its delivery
• Recruit, support and develop core and associate faculty, fostering an inclusive, collaborative and high-performing environment
• Lead your own research group
• Guide and coordinate Programme research to ensure scientific excellence and sustainability
• Work in close partnership with technical, operational and informatics teams
• Contribute to the Institute’s Senior Leadership Team and strategic direction
• Build external collaborations and, where appropriate, pursue funding and partnerships

We welcome applicants from academia, industry, clinical and non-traditional career paths.

We are seeking an established scientific leader with the experience and credibility to lead a major research Programme at scale, while fostering a supportive, inclusive and collaborative research environment.

• A strong record of research and scientific publication and impact in a relevant field, including the presentation and derivation of insight from genomic data.
• Recognised expertise and contribution within relevant scientific communities, appropriate to career stage
• Significant scientific contributions demonstrated through high-quality research, innovation, or translational impact across academic, clinical, or industry settings.
• Experience leading and developing scientific teams or research groups, with the ability to empower, mentor and support people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to set a pioneering and forward-looking scientific vision for the Programme, and articulate a long-term strategic plan to deliver on that vision.
• Demonstrated commitment to inclusive, respectful and values-led leadership, fostering an environment where people feel supported to do their best work.
• Evidence of successful teamwork and partnership-building across scientific, clinical, technical or industry communities.
• Ability to work openly and constructively as part of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to institutional strategy, planning and decision-making.
• Excellent communication skills tailored to diverse audiences, with the ability to engage transparently and collaboratively across all levels of the organisation.

• Experience contributing to or leading complex, interdisciplinary programmes.
• Ability to work adaptively and proactively with operational, technical and informatics colleagues to ensure effective programme delivery.
• Understanding of responsible research practice, data governance and the stewardship of shared scientific resources.

• Commitment to creating a culture grounded in openness, teamwork, adaptability and pioneering science, in line with the Institute’s values.
• Ability to champion inclusive research culture through your leadership style, decision-making, and day-to-day interactions.
• Willingness to actively contribute to organisational culture, including Sanger citizenship activities, Culture & Inclusion initiatives and Research Environment priorities.

• Experience developing or contributing to external funding, partnerships or major collaborative initiatives, appropriate to career stage.
• Ability to represent the Programme and Institute externally, strengthening strategic relationships with academic, clinical, industry and funding partners.

We welcome applicants with diverse leadership experiences, including from academia, industry, clinical roles and non-traditional career paths.

For further…