Principal Scientist (Functional Genomics)

Principal Scientist - Functional Genomics    Salary : £ 57,000 - £ 64,400   per   annum (dependent on experience) plus   benefits   Reports to:   Group leader   Directorate:   Research & Innovation   Contract:   Permanent   Hours:   Full time   35 hours per week   Location:   Cambridge, UK, joint AstraZeneca - CRUK Functional Genomics Centre, 1 Francis Crick Avenue, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0AA   (Lab based low - flex ,   with a minimum of 3 days per week on-site).   Closing date:   Sunday 9 th   August   2026 23:55 pm   Recruitment process:   Initial   Teams call followed by in person interview in Cambridge,   which   will include competency   based   and   technical   questions with   a   presentation assessment .   Interview date:   First stage   approximately w/c   17 th   August.   Visa sponsorship:   Cancer Research UK   can   consider visa sponsorship for this vacancy (conditions apply). If this applies to you, please ensure that this is clearly marked on your application.    At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.   We have an exciting opportunity at   Cancer Research Horizons for a skilled Principal scientist to join the Joint AstraZeneca-Cancer Research Horizons Functional Genomics Centre based in Cambridge .   The Joint AstraZeneca-Cancer Research Horizons Functional Genomics Centre (FGC), launched in 2019, is   a state-of-the-art   facility dedicated to unlocking the full potential of functional genomics for novel cancer therapeutics. As a centre of excellence, the FGC specialises in advanced functional genomics screening technologies, sophisticated cancer models,   and computational approaches for 'big data' analysis.  You will be joining a dynamic and diverse team under the leadership of David Walter.   This role offers the unique opportunity to be part of an exciting team,   operating   at the forefront of research and technology development, gaining experience across the breadth of CRISPR technologies whilst it is being applied to clinically actionable programs.  Working in a diverse, dynamic, and   cutting-edge   scientific environment, this laboratory-based role will give you the opportunity to apply your molecular and cell biology and drug discovery   expertise   to build new capabilities and support our functional genomic screening efforts.   About Cancer Research Horizons       As the world’s biggest medical research charity,   we’ve   helped bring fourteen new cancer drugs to market. However, there is still an urgent need to bring more effective treatments to patients faster.   Cancer Research Horizons (CRH) is CRUK’s internal translation engine. CRUK’s established drug discovery teams   operate   under one organisation and leadership team. Our unique combination of cancer biology expertise and access to CRUK’s world-class academic network, coupled with cutting edge technology platforms and clinical expertise enables us to 1) bring new treatments to patients faster and 2) tackle the biggest challenges in discovering cancer drugs by seeking out more radical ideas and embracing risk in our bid to achieve success.    Based at sites in Cambridge, the CRUK Scotland Institute in Glasgow, and Newcastle University, Cancer Research Horizons employs ~180 staff from both industrial and academic backgrounds   Key Responsibilities:   Advance Functional Genomics Capabilities:   Lead the design, establishment, and optimization of novel pooled CRISPR libraries,   high-throughput cloning strategies, and advanced CRISPR assays (e.g., base editing,   CRISPRa / i , and combinatorial tools, FACS based selection, Perturb- seq ).   Project Leadership:   Lead and execute high-impact projects to support oncology target identification and validation, translating complex screening data into actionable drug discovery initiatives.   Complex Biological Models:   Implement and screen in disease-relevant, complex biological models, integrating primary cells, 3D/organoid systems, and   in vivo   screens.   Actively scout, evaluate, and integrate emerging technologies   to drive the continuous evolution of the FGC platform.   Scientific Visibility:   Achieve external scientific visibility through oral presentations at conferences and authorship on high-impact, peer-reviewed publications.   Provide mentorship ,   guidance, and training   to develop staff and foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture.   What are we looking for?   A PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (or equivalent experience), preferably with up to 5 years of postdoctoral experience. Experience in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting is considered a plus.   Deep   expertise   in cancer biology, with evidence of implementing   cutting-edge   technologies for target identification, validation, or structure/function studies.   Prior hands-on experience with CRISPR screening modalities, particularly for target discovery. Exposure to advanced techniques (e.g., base editing, CRISPR activation, Perturb- seq , or combinatorial screening) is a strong advantage.   Experience working with complex, disease-relevant cellular models (e.g., 3D/organoid cultures, primary immune cells) or   in vivo   systems.   A proven   track record   of independently driving, managing, and delivering translational oncology research projects.   The ability to   leverage   bioinformatics datasets and genome/proteome-wide technologies, applying rigorous statistical thinking to large-scale biological data.   Excellent communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to work effectively across cross-functional matrix teams.   Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do.   Bold:  Act with ambition,   courage   and determination     Credible:  Act with rigour and professionalism      Human : Act to have a positive impact on people     Together:  Act inclusively and collaboratively   We’re   looking f