Mycoplasma Diagnostic Lead
Working pattern: Full-time, Job share, Part-time
The Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA) is the government agency responsible for keeping the nation safe from animal disease, identifying infections that may impact people, the environment, and the economy. Our work involves responding to disease outbreaks, conducting scientific research, and supporting the international trade of animal products and plants.
The Mycoplasma Team, within the Department of Bacteriology at APHA Weybridge, is seeking an experienced scientist with diagnostic and/or research expertise to provide management and delivery of exotic and endemic mycoplasma diagnosis and surveillance at APHA as part of its National and WOAH Reference Laboratory functions.
The post holder will manage the delivery of specialist bacteriological and immunodiagnostic testing associated with international trade and provide advice on Mycoplasma diagnostics to customers when needed. They will use their expertise to develop working knowledge, support underpinning research, and liaise with stakeholders with emphasis on the detection and identification of economically important exotic veterinary Mycoplasma in support of Reference Laboratory activities.
A strong science background is required, with knowledge and experience of research and or diagnostics with veterinary pathogens, including health and safety management and associated procedures.
Inclusion, support, and the development of our people matter to us. We aim to support the career and personal wellbeing of everyone in APHA, offering generous annual leave, a contributory pension, staff bonuses and recognition, salary sacrifice benefit options, and an employee discount scheme. Flexible working is also available.
The Weybridge site is a strategically important national asset due to its role as a reference laboratory supporting the Government's response to national emergencies, including disease outbreaks. All post holders based at the APHA Weybridge site must hold a valid Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) security clearance or above. Applicants must be currently resident in the UK and have at least 3 years continuous UK residency.