Professor of Oncology(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is looking to appoint an experienced Clinical Associate Professor or Professor of Oncology to join its growing academic and clinical community. This role combines academic leadership with clinical practice through an honorary consultant position at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.

A central feature of the post is leadership in clinical trials. The successful candidate will take on a key role as Clinical Director within the Brighton and Sussex Clinical Trials Unit, helping to shape and expand the region’s oncology research portfolio.

Collaboration will be essential, particularly with the Sussex Cancer Research Centre and wider NHS and academic partners across Sussex.

Key Responsibilities

Academic Leadership & Research

• Develop and lead an independent, high-impact oncology research programme
  Secure research funding and contribute to major grant applications
  Strengthen the clinical trials portfolio across both academic and NHS settings
  Support the growth of a dedicated clinical academic oncology group

Clinical Trials & Innovation

• Provide strategic direction for the Clinical Trials Unit (CTU)
  Expand trial recruitment and research income streams
  Lead development of trials in areas such as breast, lung, gastrointestinal, skin, and gynaecological cancers
  Support both early-phase and post-licensing optimisation studies

Teaching & Education

• Deliver research-informed teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
  Contribute to curriculum development within medicine and oncology
  Support student research projects, placements, and clinical exposure opportunities
  Encourage clinician engagement in teaching activities

Clinical Practice (NHS Role)

Undertake clinical duties as an Honorary Consultant within oncology services
Provide leadership within the Clinical Cancer Services division
Contribute to patient-centred care and multidisciplinary collaboration

About You

This role is suited to an established clinical academic with a passion for advancing oncology research and education.

Essential criteria include:

• Medical qualification with specialist registration
  Completion of training with CCT in Clinical or Medical Oncology
  Demonstrated experience in leading or contributing to clinical trials
  Strong track record in research, including publications and funding success
  Experience in teaching and mentoring within higher education or clinical settings

For Professorial level applicants:

• National and international recognition in oncology
  Proven leadership in research, innovation, and academic strategy
  Sustained contribution to education and institutional development

Research Environment

BSMS offers a dynamic and supportive research ecosystem, with strengths in areas such as translational haemato-oncology, global health, and mental health. There is strong institutional interest in expanding oncology research across both solid and haematological cancers.

The Sussex Cancer Research Centre brings together expertise from universities, NHS organisations, and interdisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes through innovative research.

About the Institution

BSMS is a partnership between the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton, working closely with NHS organisations across the South-East of England.

The School is known for:

• High-quality, research-led medical education
  Strong clinical-academic integration
  Commitment to inclusivity and sustainability
  A collaborative and supportive working culture

Why Join This Role?

• Opportunity to shape the future of oncology research in Sussex
  Access to strong academic and clinical infrastructure
  Work within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
  Contribute to meaningful improvements in cancer care and outcomes

The campus is located near the South Downs National Park, offering a high quality of life alongside professional development opportunities.

Eligibility & Visa Information

This role meets the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship if appointed on a full-time basis. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK and fulfil all regulatory requirements.

For further information, the following UK government resources may be useful:

• Skilled Worker visa guidance
  Registering to work as a doctor in the UK
  Right to work checks for employers
  Immigration rules and visa categories
  NHS employment and professional standards

All duties associated with this role must be carried out within the UK.

Additional Information

For informal discussions, you may contact senior academic or clinical leads within BSMS or partner NHS organisations (details available in the recruitment pack).

The institution is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups in academic medicine.