Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK (CRUK), shared Ian Walker‘s post on LinkedIn, adding:
“This is a fantastic role, within a great team. Please do take a look to see if it is for you.”
Quoting Ian Walker‘s post:
“Science Policy: Innovation Doesn’t Happen in Isolation
We often celebrate the moment a new technology emerges – a diagnostic tool, a treatment, a prevention strategy. But behind every breakthrough lies a complex ecosystem of regulation, funding, infrastructure, political decision making and public engagement.
If any part of that system falters, innovation stalls.
That’s why shaping the environment around research is just as critical as conducting the research itself. Policy underpins and supports new discoveries being made and ensures they can deliver impact for all. It determines whether the UK remains a global leader in cancer research or risks falling behind.
Science policy is not about reacting to change – it’s about anticipating it, understanding emerging trends and their system-wide implications, navigating political landscapes and building coalitions across government and industry and funders. When we align research, innovation and population level priorities – we can communicate complex ideas in ways that resonate with decisionmakers and the public.
A Moment of Opportunity
We are entering a period of extraordinary possibility. Advances in genomics, AI ‑ driven diagnostics, personalised medicine and early detection are reshaping what is possible in cancer research and care. But realising their potential depends on the ecosystem that we build around them.
If we want the UK to remain at the forefront of global cancer innovation, we must continue to grow our investment in science, but also in the eco-system that shapes the conditions for science to thrive.
The future of cancer research will be defined not just by what we discover, but by the choices we make about how those discoveries are supported, governed and shared, and ultimately – ensure that progress is not only accelerated, but accessible – for everyone.
Opportunity for a new Director of Science Policy.
At Cancer Research UK, this work is more than a philosophy – it’s a priority. We are currently seeking a Director of Science Policy to help drive this agenda forward and strengthen the environment for world leading cancer research. Anyone interested in shaping the future of science policy and innovation is encouraged to explore the opportunity on our website.”
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