Pathway to Independence for Clinical Academics in Cancer - Call for Applications 2025

The NIHR Royal Marsden Biomedical Research Centre has launched their flagship leadership programme for early career researchers: Pathway to Independence for clinical academics in cancer. This is an exciting opportunity for clinicians, nurses and allied health professionals working in the field of cancer research to learn about the skills needed to become independent researchers and apply for advanced fellowships.

The programme is a two-day residential at the Møller Institute, Cambridge from 20 and 21 November 2025 and aims to provide participants with:

• advice and coaching to become independent researchers
• inspiration, peer group support, mentorship and networking opportunities
• bootcamp-style training focused on writing successful funding applications and abstracts
• mock fellowship interviews and interview coaching
• insights into the future of cancer research from key decision-makers in major cancer funding bodies
• a Funders Roadshow with time to discuss funding schemes

You can learn more about the programme on their website.

The NIHR GOSH BRC has been allocated one place on the programme and the BRC will provide funding to support the place. Therefore, the NIHR GOSH BRC is holding an open competition for early career researchers from across GOSH and ICH who are clinicians, nurses or allied health professionals to apply to attend the programme. The programme is open to anyone who holds or is in their final year of a research doctorate (PhD/MD).

The funding will cover training materials, refreshments, food, an overnight stay, and travel to and from the venue. A second place may become available so we will also be looking to select a reserve candidate. GOSH BRC Career Development Academy Leads will review applications and select the person who will be allocated the funded place on the programme, as well as a reserve candidate. The successful applicant will be chosen based on their research track record and ambition to be a clinical researcher, as articulated in their application.

To apply, you must:

• Be a clinician, nurse or allied health professional substantively employed by GOSH or UCL GOS ICH
• Be available to attend the event on both 20 and 21 November 2025
• Work in the field of cancer research and your research should align with the remit of GOSH BRC
• Hold or be in the final year of a research doctorate (PhD/MD).

Completed application forms and a CV should be submitted to brc@gosh.nhs.uk by 5 pm on Thursday 14th of August 2025.

Click here to download the application form

Please contact brc@gosh.nhs.uk with any queries.