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Job summary

Main area
Gastrointestinal Unit
Grade
NHS AfC: Band 5
Contract
12 months (Fixed term)
Hours
Full time - 37.5 hours per week
Job ref
282-CR1638
Employer
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Employer type
NHS
Site
Royal Marsden Hospital Chelsea
Town
Chelsea
Salary
£38,488 - £46,852 Per Annum
Salary period
Yearly
Closing
13/07/2026 23:59

Employer heading

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust logo

Pre-Doctoral Scientist (Upper GI Surg Oncology - Early Diagnostics)

NHS AfC: Band 5

Job overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Pre-Doctoral Scientist to join a translational surgical oncology research programme focused on the development of early diagnostic approaches for oesophageal and gastric cancers.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of laboratory science and clinical practice, contributing to research aimed at improving early detection and outcomes for patients with cancer. The successful candidate will gain experience across both academic and hospital settings, including exposure to clinical sample collection and biobanking processes.

Main duties of the job

During this pre- doctoral scientist fellowship it is expected that the appointee will conduct their own independent original research leading to several national or international presentations and peer- reviewed publications. There will be opportunity to develop translational research 
skills, particularly in early cancer diagnosis. Science writing skills and critical thinking will be developed further. 

Working for our organisation

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals – one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey – as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital.

At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do.

At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For further information please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification:

  • Support laboratory-based research investigating biomarkers and early diagnostic strategies for oesophageal and gastric cancer.
  • Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, immunoassays, tissue dissection under supervision, where appropriate).
  • Assist in the processing, storage, and documentation of clinical samples.
  • Contribute to data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of research findings.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with regulatory and governance standards.
  • Work collaboratively with clinicians, surgeons, and research staff.
  • Participate in laboratory meetings and research discussions.
  • Support the preparation, under supervision, of reports, abstracts, manuscripts and grant applications.

Person specification

Education/Qualifications

Essential criteria
  • A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g., Oncology, Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology, or related field)
  • Previous laboratory experience (e.g., MSc research project, internship, or research assistant role)
  • Familiarity with core laboratory techniques (e.g., PCR, immunoassays and basic cell biology techniques)
Desirable criteria
  • Exposure to translational research or biomarker discovery
  • Experience handling human tissue samples or working under regulatory frameworks (e.g., HTA, GCP)

Experience

Essential criteria
  • Strong interest in oncology and early cancer detection research
  • Motivation to pursue an academic career
  • High level of professionalism when working in clinical settings

Skills / knowledge

Essential criteria
  • Ability to use initiative to highlight potential problems/issues and to implement successful solutions

Employer certification / accreditation badges

Trust IDApprenticeships logoLondon Living Wage is a voluntary commitment made by employers, who can become accredited with the Living Wage FoundationArmed Forces Covenant Gold AwardDisability confident employerCare quality commission - OutstandingStep into healthMenopause Friendly 2025

Documents to download

Apply online now

Further details / informal visits contact

Name
Sacheen Kumar
Job title
Consultant Upper GI Surgeon
Email address
[email protected]
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