Laboratory Scientist – Viral Zoonoses

Job Description

About Us

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is an executive agency of DEFRA, working with the Scottish and Welsh Governments to protect animal, plant, and bee health. With over 3,000 professionals, APHA provides world-class research, advice, and support to safeguard the UK’s environment, economy, and public health.

At APHA, diversity and inclusion are central to how we work. We value innovation, collaboration, and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.

About the Role

We are seeking a Laboratory Scientist to join the Viral Zoonoses team within our Virology Department. You will play a vital role in research, diagnostics, and outbreak response for a wide range of viruses.

This role includes working in high-level biocontainment (CL2/CL3) facilities (full training provided) and may involve supervision of staff.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct and support research and diagnostic work on zoonotic viruses (e.g., coronaviruses, rabies-related lyssaviruses, hantaviruses, and viral hemorrhagic fevers).

Perform molecular, virologic, and serological testing (PCR, sequencing, ELISA, virus culture, titration, neutralization assays).

Support outbreak responses and statutory/commercial diagnostic testing.

Establish and validate new laboratory techniques; write and maintain SOPs.

Work with laboratory animals or animal-derived samples when required (training and licensing supported).

Ensure compliance with biocontainment, safety, and quality standards (ISO9001 & ISO17025).

Prepare and contribute to reports, publications, and conference presentations.

Train and supervise staff, students, or visiting scientists.

Contribute to statutory rabies testing and WHO/WOAH reference laboratory work.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience

Degree in Biological Sciences (or equivalent experience).

Laboratory experience in:

Virology (virus/cell culture, titration).

Molecular biology (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, sequencing, bioinformatics).

Serology (ELISA, virus neutralization, immuno-diffusion assays).

Ability to design, analyse, and present scientific work.

Strong written, numerical, and IT skills.

Willingness to work in CL2/CL3 biocontainment.

Understanding of SAPO/ACDP compliance.

Ability to obtain a Home Office Personal Licence for in vivo studies.

Security & Residency Requirements

This post requires Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) security clearance.

You must have lived in the UK for at least 3 continuous years.

Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available).

Behaviors Assessed

Making Effective Decisions

Working Together

Delivering at Pace

Technical Skills Assessed:

Knowledge of zoonotic viruses.

Understanding of laboratory techniques.

Benefits

Civil Service Pension with 28.97% employer contribution.

Generous annual leave.

Staff recognition schemes, bonuses, and discounts.

Flexible working hours and three paid volunteering days per year.

Social events and wellbeing initiatives at the Weybridge site.

Training and career development opportunities.

Application Process

Apply with a CV and a 500-word personal statement.

Selection includes sift and interview (may involve a presentation or practical exercise).

Interviews will assess behaviors, experience, and technical skills.

Additional Information

Full-time only, though job share may be considered.

Role requires on-site working at Weybridge (cannot be performed overseas).

Criminal record checks will be carried out.

Applicants must not have been dismissed from government service for fraud in the past 5 years.

Join APHA and contribute to world-class science protecting the UK’s people, animals, and environment.