Scientific Officer

The UCL Cancer Institute is the hub for cancer research at University College London, one of the World's leading universities. The Institute draws together over 300 talented scientists who are working together to translate research discoveries into developing better, more effective treatments to improve outcomes for cancer patients. In particular, it fosters links between basic cancer researchers across Biomedicine, and with the clinical activities of our four partner Hospital trusts, known as UCL Partners:
University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, the Royal Free Hampstead NHS Trust, and Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust) as well as the London School of Pharmacy and Cancer Research UK. Further Information about the UCL Cancer Institute can be found on our website

The Genomics Science Technology Platform (STP) at the Francis Crick Institute provides specialist expertise and advanced sequencing technologies to support genomic research across the Crick and its partner institutions. The post holder will work within the Genomics STP to support the TRACERx (TRAcking Cancer Evolution through therapy/Rx) programme, led by Professor Charles Swanton. TRACERx and its successor study, TRACERx EVO (TRAcking Cancer Evolution through therapy/Rx Evolution), are large-scale longitudinal cancer genomics studies investigating the evolution of non‑small cell lung cancer through the analysis of multi‑region tumour samples and longitudinal patient samples collected across disease progression and treatment.

These studies use advanced genomic technologies to understand tumour evolution, treatment response and the emergence of therapeutic resistance.

• Provide specialist technical expertise and independently deliver complex next-generation sequencing workflows across multiple research programmes, including bulk, single‑cell and long‑read sequencing.
• Take delegated responsibility for the performance, validation, optimisation and continuous development of designated sequencing platforms, laboratory workflows and associated equipment, ensuring high quality, reliable and reproducible data generation.
• Exercise independent professional judgement to evaluate, implement and optimise emerging sequencing technologies, resolve complex technical challenges and drive continuous improvement in laboratory capability, efficiency and performance.
• Act as the laboratory’s technical expert for designated sequencing technologies, providing specialist guidance, technical leadership, mentoring and training, while contributing to the strategic development of sequencing capability within the Genomics STP.

The role is available for a year in the first instance.

We welcome applications from all candidates. Please note that applicants requiring Skilled Worker sponsorship should be aware that this role is not normally considered eligible for
sponsorship under current UK immigration rules. Applicants who would require sponsorship to take up this role should be aware that UCL is therefore unlikely to be able to sponsor an appointment to this post.

You will have substantial experience in molecular biology and genomics, with a strong track record of independently delivering and optimising next‑generation sequencing workflows in a research or core facility environment. You will have hands‑on expertise in DNA/RNA library preparation, bulk and single‑cell sequencing, and both short‑read and long‑read sequencing technologies, including experience implementing Oxford Nanopore workflows.

You will be an excellent problem solver, able to troubleshoot complex technical challenges, exercise independent judgement, and drive continuous improvements to laboratory processes. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail are essential, along with experience maintaining laboratory documentation, SOPs, LIMS records and data management systems.

You will be a confident communicator, capable of providing specialist technical advice, building effective collaborative relationships, and mentoring or training colleagues. A commitment to high‑quality…