Job Description

Life-saving research. Trustworthy digital news. Storytelling with impact.
Digital News Officer
32,000 - 37,000 plus
Reports to: Digital News Manager
Grade: P2
Directorate: Policy, Information and Communications
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time 35 hours per week
Location: Stratford, London . Office-based with high flexibility (1-2 days per week in the office)
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.
Closing date: 11 January 2026, 23:55
Interview Date: Week commencing 19 January 2026
Recruitment process: 1 stage competency interview with a task.
How do I apply? 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 work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly, and objectively.
At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.
We are professionals with purpose, beating cancer every day. But we need to go much further and much faster. That's why we're looking for someone talented, someone who wants to develop their skills, someone like you.
Cancer Research UK's Policy, Information & Communications (PIC) directorate plays a vital role in breaking down barriers to the adoption and availability of new innovations in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care. By leveraging their influence and expertise, they strive to support everyone affected by cancer, no matter who they are or where they live, to ensure the benefits of our research reach the public and position the UK as a global leader in cancer care, policies, and innovation. The PIC team connects with millions of people by providing high-quality information across multiple channels, including our trusted cancer news platforms.
Every day, scientists around the world are making discoveries that bring us closer to beating cancer. As our Digital News Officer, you'll be at the heart of sharing these breakthroughs--transforming complex science into stories that inform, inspire and empower millions. Your words will help people understand the progress we're making and why it matters, driving support for life-saving research.
What will I be doing?
You'll play a key role in telling stories that matter. Your work will help people understand the science behind our progress and feel part of something bigger.

• Create clear, compelling content for our website, newsletters and social media that brings global cancer research and CRUK's priorities to life.
• Produce news and features and collaborate with our social media team on multimedia content that's accurate and engaging.
• Use analytics to track performance and shape future content.
• Spot trends in search, AI and digital engagement to keep our communications fresh and effective.
• Respond to comments and foster conversations that connect us with our audiences.
• Work closely with colleagues across science, health and policy teams to ensure our content reflects the latest developments.

What are we looking for?

• Exceptional writing skills - able to make complex science clear and engaging.
• Background in science communication or journalism.
• Strong research skills and the ability to find and interpret scientific evidence.
• A proactive approach to pitching and creating content on global cancer research and CRUK's own work.
• Sensitivity and confidence when interviewing scientists and people affected by cancer.
• Excellent time management and the ability to juggle multiple projects.
• A collaborative mindset and proven ability to build strong relationships.

Desirable:

• Highly desirable to have knowledge of molecular biology and cancer research
• Experience creating interview-led content, audio or video for online channels.
• Understanding of SEO and emerging AI tools.
• Familiarity with analytics platforms like Google Analytics.

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 .
How do I apply?
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 work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly, and objectively.
Additional information
For more information about working with us please or contact us at .
For more updates on our work and careers, follow us on: , , , and .
Our vision is to create a charity where everyone feels like they belong, benefits from and participates in, the work we do. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented.
We want to see every candidate performing at their best throughout the job application process, interview process and whilst at work. We therefore ask you to inform us of any concerns you have or any adjustments you might need to enable this to happen. Please contact or 020 3469 8400 as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, we are unable to recruit anyone below the age of 18, so that we can protect young people from health & safety and safeguarding risks.

Skills Required