Patient and Public Involvement Panel Member
Location: Mostly remote (with some in person meetings in Cambridge)
Commitment: Flexible, approximately 4–6 meetings per year plus optional activities
Remuneration: Expenses and reimbursement provided, in line with NIHR guidance
Term: 18 months (pilot panel)
Application deadline: Sunday 2 November 2025
About us
The Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute is a department of the University of Cambridge, funded by the charity Cancer Research UK. Our scientists work to understand all aspects of cancer, from how tumours start, to how they grow, spread, and respond to treatment.
We aim to harness the power of research to bring about a world where everybody can lead longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.
We want to make sure that everything we do is informed by the people most affected by cancer – patients and their loved ones. That’s why we are piloting a new Patient Panel to bring patient perspectives into the heart of our Institute’s strategy and decision-making.
What the role involves
As a Patient Panel Member, you will:
- Share your views and experiences to help shape our strategic direction.
- Take part in recruitment panels for senior scientists and help assess their long-term research plans.
- Contribute to senior scientists reviews, evaluating their progress on research programmes.
- Join advisory groups for large research initiatives.
- Offer insights on new policies, initiatives, or research priorities.
- Help design training for staff and students to ensure research is communicated sensitively and with patients at the centre.
- Take part in optional activities, such as lab visits or talks.
- Take part in optional training
You don’t need to join every activity, we are able to match opportunities to your interests, experience, and availability.
Who we’re looking for
We welcome applications from anyone affected by cancer, whether you’re a patient or loved one, so long as you are aged 18 and over, and are living within Cambridgeshire and East England. You do not need previous experience on patient panels.
We are especially interested in people who:
- Want to influence the future of cancer research.
- Are comfortable sharing their views in group discussions.
- Can listen and consider different perspectives.
- Are keen to work collaboratively with researchers and other patients.
- Respect the need for confidentiality
We value diversity and are committed to making sure our panel represents a wide range of experiences and backgrounds.
Time commitment
As a pilot panel, the role will be shaped by the members recruited. We currently plan for around 4 to 6 meetings per year, mostly online. There will also be occasional in-person opportunities in Cambridge (such as lab visits and recruitment panels).
Remuneration and expenses
Remuneration and reimbursement will be offered following the Cambridge Cancer PPI Network guidance at the rates recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), in line with the NIHR INVOLVE Standards for Public Involvement.
How to apply
Please complete a short online application form. We’ll then invite shortlisted applicants for an informal conversation (by phone, online, or in person) so we can get to know you and answer any of your questions.
Apply now