Mycoplasma Diagnostic Lead

Working under the umbrella of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), 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. We also respond to disease outbreaks, conduct scientific research, and support the international trade of animal products and plants – meaning our work is high profile.

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.

Applicants should have a strong science background, with knowledge and experience of research and or diagnostics with veterinary pathogens to include health and safety management and associated procedures. The post holder will be expected to 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.

Inclusion, support and the development of our people matter to us. We aim to support the career and personal wellbeing of everyone in APHA. Our benefits include generous annual leave, a contributory pension, staff bonuses and recognition, salary sacrifice benefit options, and an employee discount scheme. We also offer flexible working.

Other Information

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. For this reason all post holders based at the APHA Weybridge site must hold a valid Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) security clearance or above. It is up to each person applying for a post at APHA Weybridge to ensure they meet the CTC residency criteria. Applicants must be currently resident in the UK & have at least 3 years continuous UK residency.

Closing date: 31 March 2025.

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