Research Scientist

Research Scientist

At the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), our vision is to be a great place to work where all staff feel respected, included, supported and engaged. Our purpose is to safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy.

At APHA, you will be part of a diverse team of over 2,000 skilled and committed professionals who share this inspiring goal. Together, we protect endangered wildlife, conduct research into bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases and vaccines, facilitate international trade, identify and control endemic and exotic diseases, and manage a programme of bee inspections, diagnostics, research and training.

The Role

This post is a research scientist role within the Mammalian Virology workgroup, focusing on Biosecurity and Biosafety. The role is to manage the workgroup’s laboratory facilities including containment level 3 laboratories, and act as safety officer and as local quality manager (ISO9001) for the workgroup. The post will facilitate international partnerships in the areas of biosafety and biosecurity and will support disease emergency responses in the Virology Department, helping to coordinate outbreak responses. This post holder will also plan, manage and execute research into the pathogenesis and epidemiology of veterinary viruses and will support the National Reference Laboratories for Nidovirales and Retroviridae. The post holder will generate expertise and provide consultancy both within the Agency and to national and international stakeholders on veterinary RNA viruses.

Who we’re looking for

You will have an understanding of the statutory requirements and standards of Health, Safety and Quality work, with expertise/experience of working in containment level 3. You will demonstrate knowledge of and practical experience in veterinary virology, and good written and oral communication skills to deliver outputs such as manuscripts, presentations, funding applications and reports.

You are expected to hold a BSc (preferably in veterinary/medical biosciences) and post-graduate experience of at least 3 years in microbiology, preferably virology or immunology or equivalent experience.

What’s in it for me?

In return you’ll have access to training and development; civil servants are encouraged to have a minimum of five days of learning and development each year.

You’ll also receive:

• 25 days holiday (rising over 5 years to 30 days), 8 Bank holidays, and an additional day in May to mark the Queen’s birthday
• Flexible working options where appropriate
• A civil service pension
• A staff recognition scheme
• Interest free loans towards season tickets, or the cost of a bike

Apply link: https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?vxsys=4&vxvac=24755