Media Officer - Science

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the application questions and work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly, and objectively.
If you require more time to apply as part of a reasonable adjustment, please contact as soon as possible.
Recruitment process: 1 stage interview process consisting of role-based competency interviews and a presentation task.
Interview date: From 7 July 2026
At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.
At Cancer Research UK, we're here to beat cancer and we're impatient to get there. This role is for a talented communicator who thrives on turning complex science into stories that inspire, inform and drive policy change.
As a Senior Media Officer - Science, you'll play a key role in telling the story of our research and turning complex discoveries into powerful, accessible stories that inform, inspire and drive change. From national news to broadcast and podcasts, you'll make sure our science reaches the audiences who matter most.
What you'll do
Tell the story of breakthroughs - lead targeted, high impact media activity that puts our science and research firmly in the spotlight
Drive media coverage - land compelling stories across national, specialist and broadcast media
Translate science into impact - spot newsworthy research and turn it into engaging stories for everyday audiences
Be a trusted media contact - handle reactive enquiries and support CRUK's position as the authoritative voice on cancer
Create standout content - develop press materials, pitches and campaign messaging that cuts through
Build strong media relationships - work closely with journalists across print, broadcast and emerging platforms
Collaborate to deliver more - partner across teams to deliver integrated, multi-channel campaigns
Use insight to sharpen performance - track coverage, spot trends, and continuously improve impact
Bring human stories to life - connect research to real people through powerful, authentic storytelling, This is more than a media role-it's your chance to help shape the conversation around cancer, spotlight lifesaving research, and bring us closer to a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.
Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do.
Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination
Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism
Human: Act to have a positive impact on people
Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively
We're looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer.
What will I gain?
We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals.
You can explore our benefits by visiting our .
Internal Eligibility criteria
Internal candidates should ideally have completed their 6-month 'getting started' period before applying for other roles. You should also advise your current line manager at the point you make an internal application, or at the latest, at the point of being invited for an interview.
All internal candidates applying for a secondment, must have:
completed their getting started period
discussed their intention to apply and gained approval to apply with their line manager
been in their substantive (home) role for at least 6 months (this is only applicable if you have previously been on secondment)
If you do not confirm that you meet these requirements, we will not be able to progress your application.

A media or PR professional with experience in science or health communications
Someone with a science degree or proven ability to translate scientific papers into clear, engaging stories for a wide range of audiences.
A strong storyteller with excellent writing and communication skills
A creative and proactive thinker who spots opportunities and makes them happen
A collaborative team player who builds relationships and works effectively across teams
Someone who thrives in a fast-paced, reactive environment, using sound judgement under pressure.
Experience in a policy environment would be highly beneficial, bringing an understanding of how communications can support and influence public affairs, government engagement and wider societal impact

Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.