Job Description
About the Role
Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), in partnership with University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, is recruiting a senior clinical academic in oncology at Associate Professor or Professor level.
This is a leadership role combining academic, research, and clinical responsibilities, with a strong emphasis on clinical trials development and delivery. The successful candidate will take on a key leadership position as Clinical Director of the Brighton and Sussex Clinical Trials Unit, helping to expand and strengthen oncology research across the region.
You will play a central role in shaping the future of cancer research and clinical trials within Sussex, working closely with the Sussex Cancer Centre, NHS partners, and wider research networks.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and grow a research programme in oncology, with a focus on clinical trials
Provide strategic leadership to the Clinical Trials Unit
Develop and expand cancer research activity across Sussex
Secure external research funding and lead grant applications
Deliver teaching and mentorship across undergraduate and postgraduate medical education
Support the development of a clinical academic oncology group
Collaborate with NHS teams to enhance clinical trial recruitment and delivery
Contribute to institutional leadership and long-term academic planning
Research and Strategic Focus
This role supports the continued growth of the Sussex Cancer Research Centre, which brings together expertise from universities and NHS partners to improve cancer care and outcomes.
Current research strengths include:
- Translational haemato-oncology
Population health and prevention
Health inequalities and coastal health challenges
The role also offers scope to expand into additional areas such as solid tumour oncology and clinical trial innovation.
About You
You will be a senior clinician and academic with a strong track record in oncology research and leadership.
Essential criteria:
- Completion of specialist training with CCT in Clinical or Medical Oncology
Experience in leading or contributing to clinical trials
Evidence of research leadership and funding success
Strong teaching and mentoring experience in medical education
For Professorial level:
A sustained national or international reputation in oncology
Proven leadership in research, education, and institutional strategy
You should also demonstrate the ability to build partnerships, lead teams, and drive innovation in both clinical and academic settings.
About BSMS
Brighton and Sussex Medical School is a collaboration between the University of Sussex, the University of Brighton, and NHS organisations across the South-East.
The School is known for:
- High-quality, research-led medical education
Strong partnerships with healthcare providers
A commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation
A Gold Athena Swan Award for gender equality
Why Join This Role?
- Combine clinical practice with high-impact academic research
Lead and shape oncology clinical trials in a growing research environment
Work within a collaborative network of universities and NHS partners
Influence the next generation of medical professionals
Access strong institutional support for research and career development
Visa and Work Eligibility
This role is eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route, subject to meeting the required criteria.
For official guidance, please refer to:
- Skilled Worker visa overview
Eligibility requirements
Salary and job criteria
Healthcare professional registration (GMC)
Proving your right to work in the UK
Additional Information
Informal enquiries are encouraged via academic and clinical contacts listed in the recruitment materials
Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in STEMM fields
All work must be undertaken within the UK