Paid internships

What paid internships do you offer?

Our 12-week internships are across a wide range of departments within the charity and available in a variety of locations including London, Cambridge and Oxford, with flexible working. We also have fully remote roles.

All of our internships provide you with invaluable insight and the opportunity to develop your skills within a supportive environment while earning money.  Our interns work on projects over and above the work we’re already doing, so you will be helping accelerate progress for people affected by cancer.
Our paid internship scheme has consistently been recognised by external bodies as one of the very best charity placements in the country, including being the highest-ranked charity internship on Rate My Placement’s Top 100 Undergraduate Employers.

Who can apply?

We design our internships to provide school leavers, undergraduates, graduates and career changers a taster of what it’s like working for one of the UK’s leading charities.

When can I apply?

Each 12-week internship takes place three times per year with intakes in January, July and September.

How much can I earn?

Our paid interns earn £11.56 per hour (£21,039.20 full-time yearly equivalent).

What happens at the end of my internship?

At the end of your internship, we encourage you to apply for permanent positions, if suitable ones are available, to enable you to stay on at the charity.

I would recommend an internship at Cancer Research UK to anyone. A common misconception is that internships are only for students, but actually, anyone can apply! I’d say it’s really important to find a role you’re genuinely interested in, as if you’re passionate about it you will have a better chance of doing well. One of the things I like the most about Cancer Research UK is that you really feel that you’re doing meaningful work, and it’s amazing to work with so many people who are passionate about the cause and who are so motivated as a result. As well as work, there’s lots of fun to be had. You can get involved in fundraising activities, staff networks and sports teams. It’s a really sociable place to work!

- Arabella Matthews, July 2022 intern

There hasn’t been a moment where I have felt left out, socially or professionally. There are endless opportunities all the way through for interaction and development; you really feel part of the organisation straight away. Our projects are tailored to our strengths but also to what we want to develop so you feel assured that everyone wants the best for you and to see you succeed.

- Leanne Garner, January 2022 intern