Starting a Career in Industry with Applied Cancer Science

The MSc in Applied Cancer Science offers students the opportunity to explore the science underpinning cancer research and its translation into new approaches to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Combining fundamental biology with translational research methods and advanced technologies, the course delivers the scientific and practical skills needed to understand how discoveries in the lab can lead to progress in cancer care.

With a background in pharmaceutical technology, Dhruv Gupta joined the MSc in Applied Cancer Science to deepen his understanding of cancer biology. From developing experimental and computational skills during his research project to strengthening his scientific communication and commercial awareness, the course provided experience that has proved valuable in his subsequent career in the pharmaceutical industry. In this blog, Dhruv shares his experience of the MSc and how he got the most out of his time at Oxford. 

Can you tell us about your background? 

I have always been deeply interested in the intersection of pharmacology and cancer biology, which led me to pursue a dual B.Pharm and MBA in Pharmaceutical Technology at NMIMS University in India. During my undergraduate studies, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with faculty on scientific writing, eventually building a portfolio of 34 published outputs. While my early research was broad - encompassing fields like metabolic disease - I ultimately found my 

passion in oncology. For my undergraduate research project, I formulated and evaluated phytoconstituent-loaded gummies for paediatric leukaemia, which allowed me to combine my theoretical knowledge with hands-on lab skills. Ultimately, my growing fascination with translational science and biomarker discovery inspired me to pivot my focus towards advancing cancer therapeutics at a fundamental molecular level.

How did you hear about the MSc Applied Cancer Science course and what made you decide to apply?

When researching postgraduate opportunities, I was immediately drawn to the MSc in Applied Cancer Science. What convinced me to apply was the programme’s unique balance of core cancer biology with a strong emphasis on translational research and clinical outcomes. For me, the prospect of learning directly from world-leading experts and gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge techniques made this course the perfect stepping stone to bridge my pharmaceutical science background with advanced cancer research.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

What I enjoyed most was the thoughtful structure of the course. The first term took a systems-level approach – progressing from the fundamentals of cell and molecular biology up to the tissue and organ levels – before making a seamless transition into therapeutics in the second term. The accompanying tutorials were fantastic for building essential skills in critical analysis and scientific data presentation.

Beyond the academics, I loved the vibrant, multidisciplinary environment at the Department of Oncology and the chance to interact closely with leading scientists. Serving as a Course Representative for such an international and diverse cohort was a major highlight, as it allowed me to bridge communication between students and faculty and play a small role in shaping the programme's future.

Finally, my research project in the De Val group (at the Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine) under Dr Sarah De Val and Dr Susann Bruche was a phenomenal experience. For this cardio-oncology focused project, I explored the impact of laminar shear stress on KLF-DNA binding in endothelial cells. Gaining hands-on training in novel genome-wide profiling assays, while simultaneously learning computational biology skills, was truly transformative.

What were your next career steps after completing the MSc in Applied Cancer Science?

Since completing the course, I have taken on a project management role at a pharmaceutical company, which has allowed me to integrate my scientific training with my business background. In this position, I contribute to market access strategies for rare-disease therapies, as well as the evaluation of business opportunities and feasibility for novel chemical entities (NCEs) and next-generation therapeutics across a variety of disease areas, including oncology.

 How has the MSc in Applied Cancer Science helped you to achieve your career goals?

What I value most about the programme is the broad range of transferable skills I was able to sharpen. The varied assessments pushed us to develop our academic writing, presentation abilities, and our capacity to communicate to diverse audiences. One assessment that really stood out involved preparing a commercial business case for a recent pre-clinical concept. That specific project was incredibly useful and directly translates to what I do on a daily basis in my current role. The course equipped me with a toolkit of skills that are highly applicable across both academia and industry.

What is your top tip for getting the most out of the course?

My top tip is to be proactive in bridging different disciplines. The field of cancer science increasingly requires both wet-lab and computational expertise, so don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, ask for help, and learn new analytical skills. Also, take full advantage of the collaborative environment – both within the Department and the University. Engage with your peers, take on representative roles, and participate in society events. I particularly enjoyed being part of the Oxford University Biotechnology Society, where I had the opportunity to attend talks by industry leaders and interact closely with them. The network and friendships you build here are just as valuable as the academic knowledge.

The MSc in Applied Cancer Science is a rigorous yet rewarding experience. It gave me the perfect environment to push my intellectual boundaries – whether that involved mastering complex new assays, contributing to peer-reviewed publications, or executing an interdisciplinary research project. Studying within Oxford's dynamic and collaborative academic ecosystem has been an incredible privilege that has fundamentally shaped my trajectory as a scientist. I cannot recommend this course highly enough to anyone driven to make an impact in translational oncology.

To find out more about the course: MSc in Applied Cancer Science