What is it? Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading independent cancer research organisation. More than 3,000 doctors, nurses and scientific staff work on its pioneering projects across the country. Last year the charity raised more than £420 million through its 600 high street charity shops, national campaigns, corporate donations and events such as the 5km Race for Life.

Are there opportunities for work experience? Ten to twelve-week summer internships at its London Research Institute offer science undergraduates the opportunity to work on original research projects while being paid £200 a week. There are also PhD studentships and postdoctoral fellowships available.

What graduate jobs are on offer? The charity’s two main graduate schemes have about 100 vacancies a year. The corporate and scientific services programme includes a range of functions such as information systems, HR, procurement and drug development. Those joining the fundraising, marketing and communications programme can expect to work on national health campaigns, direct marketing initiatives and a range of local fundraising events.

Where are the jobs? Cancer Research UK has research institutes in London – Lincoln’s Inn Fields and South Mimms – and Cambridge. It also has offices in Central London.

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What is the pay like? New graduates start on £24,200.

What is the competition like? The charity is one of two charities listed in The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers, but at least one university leaver in ten hopes to work in the sector.

How do you apply? The 2009 graduate and PhD programmes will be launched in October. Details of other jobs suitable for graduates are at jobs.cancerresearchuk.org

How has Cancer Research UK done in the Top 100?
2003 - Not ranked, 2004 - 79, 2005 - 74, 2006 - 66, 2007 - 48

The Times Top 100 graduate employers is based on research with more than 17,000 final-year university students. To find out more and to order the new 2007-08 edition for £14.99 visit www.Top100GraduateEmployers.com

Find out more about the best places to work in The Times Top 100 interactive table - timesonline.co.uk/top100grad

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