Here you can explore current opportunities to join our diverse team at the forefront of cancer research.
Why join COSMIC? Based at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, you’ll be at the forefront of cutting-edge cancer research surrounded by a diverse, mission-driven team made up of experts in a plethora of fields.
We call the world-famous Wellcome Genome Campus home, an environment that fosters personal and professional growth through collaboration, education and recreation. Here you can explore the beautiful nature reserves or take part in exercise classes all while working shoulder to shoulder with innovative industry leaders.
We currently have an opportunity available, and if you have a passion for somatic oncology, please do not hesitate to contact us
Head of Science & Innovation - COSMIC
Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life-changing science to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Science and Innovation to help shape the future direction of one of the world’s leading cancer genomics resources. You’ll join a diverse, multidisciplinary team working at the cutting edge of data and discovery where collaboration, innovation, and inclusion is central to everything we do.
About the Role:
You will lead the development of COSMIC’s genomic knowledge resources which aggregate complex cancer genomics data into knowledge. Your role will involve driving data strategies and innovation across the COSMIC platform. Specifically, you will have a focus on the development of Cancer Gene Census (CGC), Cancer Mutation Census (CMC), and COSMIC’s precision medicine resource (Actionability).
A key part of your role will be to integrate scientific knowledge with cutting-edge technologies, such as AI-driven methodologies, to improve how COSMIC delivers insight to researchers, clinicians, and the global community. You will have the opportunity to influence data curation, interpretation, and delivery in ways that make a real-world impact on cancer research and precision medicine.
About You:
You are a collaborative and purpose-driven leader who thrives on teamwork, innovation, and scientific excellence. Whether your background lies in biology, computational science, or data science, you’re excited by the challenge of transforming data into meaningful insights that help tackle cancer. An understanding of the commercial genomics landscape, and how to translate scientific discovery into real-world opportunities, will be highly valuable in this role.
You will enjoy working with and empowering others, bringing together diverse perspectives to create data solutions that are scientifically robust and widely accessible. You lead by example, build trust, and create an environment where your team can do their best work.
We understand that people come to leadership in different ways. If you’re excited about this role but unsure you meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply as we value potential and diverse experiences/backgrounds.
Essential Technical Skills:
- PhD in Biological or Computer Science discipline or similar experience
- Experience of developing and delivering scientific/data strategies
- Up to date knowledge of human or cancer genomics and current trends in the field
- Experience of leading scientific/data research teams and proven track record of building/motivating team members
- Experience of horizon-scanning and applying new scientific technologies and approaches to a team’s work
- Understanding of the commercial genomics field/market
- Experienced in data science especially AI/ML/NPL and applying in a genomics setting
Competencies and Behaviours:
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage and tailor explanations to differing knowledge levels
- Strong commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
- Proven ability to engage and form strong working collaborations with both academic and commercial partners
- Strategic thinker
- Can demonstrate initiative, creativity, flexibility, and a personal ethos of continuous improvement
About Us:
COSMIC is powered by collaboration, innovation, and integrity. The Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) has become the most comprehensive publicly accessible resource of genetic mutations that cause cancer. It is designed to store and display somatic mutation information and related details and contains information relating to human cancers.
As part of the Wellcome Sanger Institute, you’ll join a community that values diversity of thought and supports flexible, inclusive working. We are proud to offer an environment where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive, contribute, and grow.
Application Process:
Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter, outlining your motivation for applying and demonstrating how your skills, and experience meet the essential criteria. Please highlight your suitability for the role, referencing the criteria listed above and detailed in the job description.
For an informal discussion about the role, contact Jon Teague (jwt@sanger.ac.uk)
- Salary per annum: £63,985 to £86,000 dependent upon skills and experience
- Scientific Management job family: PSG4 Role profile
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 30 November 2025