Animal & Plant Health Agency

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. Our diverse teams of over 3,000 skilled and committed professionals come together to provide research, advice, and support to UK Government for safeguarding animal, public and plant health for benefit of the environment and economy. The Science Directorate (SD) delivers high quality, high impact, and highly relevant multidisciplinary science. Our People are diverse, talented, engaged and inspired to deliver innovative outcomes. Staff are respected, included, supported, and engaged and Bacteriology is one of the departments within the Science Directorate. Provide scientific and technical expertise for a wide range of projects in the bacteriology field. This might include work for Defra, government organisations such as the Food Standards Agency, European projects, academia, or for commercial organisations. This post is full-time, we may consider two part-time staff on a job-share basis if continuity can be arranged. The post is based at the Weybridge APHA laboratories. Attendance at the laboratories is essential and therefore the post holder needs to pass the mandatory Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) security clearance required to work at the site. Applicants must be currently resident in the UK & have at least 3 years continuous UK residency to start the CTC clearance checks. Defra does not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker License sponsor and are unable to sponsor any individuals for Skilled Worker Sponsorship. Job description Provide delivery of bacteriological science for Defra and a range of commercial customers including academia and those in the veterinary bioscience/pharmaceutical sector. The post holder will be expected to work flexibly to contribute to a range of scientific projects that may include research, surveillance, or commercial projects. The work of the Department is diverse but scientific activities delivered by the post holder are likely to include some of the following: Bacterial culture (e.g., coli, Salmonella, Brucella, Campylobacter, Mycoplasma or Mycobacteria) on specialist media from a wide range of biological samples (e.g., tissues, swabs, food, or environmental samples) Phenotypic tests e.g., bacterial serotyping, antimicrobial resistance susceptibility testing, speciation of bacteria by genetic and MALDI-ToF approaches Molecular tests including DNA/RNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or isothermal amplification, targeted gene sequencing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) approaches Immunology, including immunoassays, protein analysis and cell counting Analysis of data generated from phenotypic, molecular, and immunological techniques. This could include bioinformatics analysis Responsibility as a room officer for a laboratory Quality assurance testing of media Assisting with bacterial in vivo infection studies Support of farm/abattoir/hatchery/feed mill investigations Working on in vitro models to simulate environmental samples Working in high containment facilities following appropriate training Person specification The post holder must have knowledge and / or experience of: Molecular biology-based techniques such as RT-PCR, recombinant DNA techniques and cell culture techniques Preparation of data in tabular or graphical formats (using MS Excel, PowerPoint, Graphpad), for presentation in reports and manuscripts Working to quality (9001:2015 or UKAS 17025) and safety policies and standards Working to Standard Operating Procedures and Risk Assessments Expertise in a range of laboratory skills such as bacteriological and molecular approaches and /or immunoassays Closing date: 17 July 2025.

Mycoplasma Diagnostic Lead Working pattern: Full-time, Job share, Part-time 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. A full job specification and role requirements can be found attached to this vacancy. 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.

Reference number 169841 Salary £24,918 - £26,584 Grade Executive Officer Contract type Fixed Term Loan Secondment Length of employment Up to 103 weeks fixed term appointment with the possibility of permanency Type of role Other Working pattern Shift Working Number of posts 15 Location North East (region) About the job Summary Import controls exist to prevent harmful plant pests from entering GB from third countries. The simplest way to achieve this is to exclude harmful organisms (HOs) that are not established in GB but that have the potential to do so. This is achieved by prohibiting certain Quarantine Pests, these are listed in The Plant Health Regulations. In addition, carry out both Documentary and ID checks on import applications and accompanying certification. Inspections on fresh produce for human consumption will also be conducted in addition to the Plant Health controls. You will be working as part of a shift pattern delivering physical inspections of plants, planting material & produce in the North East Import region. This encompasses the main ports of Killingholme, Immingham & Grimsby, Hull & Tyne. You will be based in one of these ports as your primary location. You may be asked to cover inspections in other ports in the North East Region and Inland Control Points as necessary. You will be taking part in a shift pattern. Shift patterns will be agreed with you but determined by business need. You will be entitled to claim shift allowance plus mileage, if you need to use your car, travel and subsistence will be paid to cover. Branded clothing and (personal protective equipment (PPE) will be supplied. Job description Reporting to your shift team leader (line manager) and a HEO Plant Health & Seeds inspector as technical expert, plan and undertake a programme of tasks, working independently and /or as part of a team. Statutory inspection of fresh Horticultural produce, imported plants, planting material and plant produce to ensure compliance with import regulations. Extensive training and support will be given in inspection and identification methods. Responsibilities Able to take part in a shift rota to cover 24 / 7 operations for 365 days a year Able to work safely adhering to all APHA and BCP safety policies Receive Enforcement and Witness Statement training to enable you to act as an expert witness and develop your professional skills. Ensure administrative functions are delivered accurately and in accordance with established timescales and delivery/performance measures, following correct processes, procedures and instructions. In addition to physical inspection procedures, ensure that documents accompanying imported material are satisfactory and in accord with phytosanitary measures and the standards required for the marketing of fresh horticultural produce. Be aware of resource constraints and potential issues to delivery, take a proactive approach to resolve and offer solutions, making senior managers aware as appropriate. Provide support and guidance to others (internally and externally) on procedures and policies. Manage customer expectation in line with policies, targets and legislation. Escalate to both Team Leader and Technical Lead when interceptions / non-compliance found Be prepared to undertake difficult conversations with customers, stakeholders and/or delivery partners. Liaise closely with various regulatory bodies such as Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, UK Border Force, Port Health, Animal Health authorities & Border Control Point operations management. Work with BCP Traffic Marshals to prevent unnecessary delays to inspections and the transit of goods. To assist in other tasks or duties they have experience in or have been trained on which when undertaken can further their personal development as per agreement in Performance Management Record with a time limit to enhance prospects of career progression. Essential Criteria The Border Control Inspector will; Have a full driving license and independent access to their own transport Be committed to training and continued development in service delivery Be able to communicate clearly complex issues to customers both internally & Externally Be able to work collaboratively in a high-pressure time sensitive environment with delivery partners Be fully IT literate to examine on line applications, delivery plans and record findings via a paperless system Have good planning and organisational skills. Positively respond to change Ability to meet targets and re-prioritise work An understanding of the Horticultural Industry , Biosecurity, Pest & Diseases would be an advantage Licences Candidates must have a valid driving license (manual or automatic) and independent use of a car to travel between sites. Qualifications Educated to GCSE Level or equivalent with passes at grade C or above in English Maths and a science Behaviours We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Delivering at Pace Communicating and Influencing Making Effective Decisions Benefits • Learning and development tailored to your role • An environment with flexible working options • A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity • A Civil Service pension

Reference number 169840 Salary £24,918 - £26,584 Grade Executive Officer Contract type Fixed Term Loan Secondment Length of employment Up to 103 weeks fixed term appointment with the possibility of permanency Type of role Other Working pattern Shift Working Number of posts 20 Location East of England (region) About the job Summary Import controls exist to prevent harmful plant pests from entering GB from third countries. The simplest way to achieve this is to exclude harmful organisms (HOs) that are not established in GB but that have the potential to do so. This is achieved by prohibiting certain Quarantine Pests, these are listed in The Plant Health Regulations. In addition, carry out both Documentary and ID checks on import applications and accompanying certification. Inspections on fresh produce for human consumption will also be conducted in addition to the Plant Health controls. You will be working as part of a shift pattern delivering physical inspections of plants, planting material & produce in the Eastern Imports region. This encompasses the main ports of Felixstowe, Harwich, London Gateway & Tilbury. You will be based in one of these ports as your primary location. You may be asked to cover inspections in other ports in the South East Region and Inland Control Points as necessary. You will be taking part in a shift pattern. Shift patterns will be agreed with you but determined by business need. You will be entitled to claim shift allowance plus mileage, if you need to use your car, travel and subsistence will be paid to cover. Branded clothing and (personal protective equipment (PPE) will be supplied. Job description Reporting to your shift team leader (line manager) and a HEO Plant Health & Seeds inspector as technical expert, plan and undertake a programme of tasks, working independently and /or as part of a team. Statutory inspection of fresh Horticultural produce, imported plants, planting material and plant produce to ensure compliance with import regulations. Extensive training and support will be given in inspection and identification methods. Responsibilities Able to take part in a shift rota to cover 24 / 7 operations for 365 days a year Able to work safely adhering to all APHA and BCP safety policies Receive Enforcement and Witness Statement training to enable you to act as an expert witness and develop your professional skills. Ensure administrative functions are delivered accurately and in accordance with established timescales and delivery/performance measures, following correct processes, procedures and instructions. In addition to physical inspection procedures, ensure that documents accompanying imported material are satisfactory and in accord with phytosanitary measures and the standards required for the marketing of fresh horticultural produce. Be aware of resource constraints and potential issues to delivery, take a proactive approach to resolve and offer solutions, making senior managers aware as appropriate. Provide support and guidance to others (internally and externally) on procedures and policies. Manage customer expectation in line with policies, targets and legislation. Escalate to both Team Leader and Technical Lead when interceptions / non-compliance found Be prepared to undertake difficult conversations with customers, stakeholders and/or delivery partners. Liaise closely with various regulatory bodies such as Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, UK Border Force, Port Health, Animal Health authorities & Border Control Point operations management. Work with BCP Traffic Marshals to prevent unnecessary delays to inspections and the transit of goods. To assist in other tasks or duties they have experience in or have been trained on which when undertaken can further their personal development as per agreement in Performance Management Record with a time limit to enhance prospects of career progression. Essential Criteria The Border Control Inspector will; Have a full driving license and independent access to their own transport Be committed to training and continued development in service delivery Be able to communicate clearly complex issues to customers both internally & Externally Be able to work collaboratively in a high-pressure time sensitive environment with delivery partners Be fully IT literate to examine on line applications, delivery plans and record findings via a paperless system Have good planning and organisational skills. Positively respond to change Ability to meet targets and re-prioritise work An understanding of the Horticultural Industry , Biosecurity, Pest & Diseases would be an advantage Licences Candidates must have a valid driving license (manual or automatic) and independent use of a car to travel between sites. Qualifications Educated to GCSE Level or equivalent with passes at grade C or above in English Maths and a science Behaviours We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Delivering at Pace Communicating and Influencing Making Effective Decisions Benefits • Learning and development tailored to your role • An environment with flexible working options • A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity • A Civil Service pension

Reference number 169839 Salary £24,918 - £26,584 Grade Executive Officer Contract type Fixed Term Loan Secondment Length of employment Up to 103 weeks fixed term appointment with the possibility of permanency Type of role Operational Delivery Other Working pattern Shift Working Number of posts 30 Location Sevington Border Control Post About the job Summary Import controls exist to prevent harmful plant pests from entering GB from third countries. The simplest way to achieve this is to exclude harmful organisms (HOs) that are not established in GB but that have the potential to do so. This is achieved by prohibiting certain Quarantine Pests, these are listed in The Plant Health Regulations. In addition, carry out both Documentary and ID checks on import applications and accompanying certification. Inspections on fresh produce for human consumption will also be conducted in addition to the Plant Health controls. You will be working as part of a shift pattern delivering physical inspections of plants, planting material & produce in the Border Control Point in Sevington, Ashford as your primary location. You may be asked to cover inspections in other ports in the South East Region and Inland Control Points as necessary. You will be taking part in a shift pattern. Shift patterns will be agreed with you but determined by business need. You will be entitled to claim shift allowance plus mileage, if you need to use your car, travel and subsistence will be paid to cover. Branded clothing and (personal protective equipment (PPE) will be supplied. Job description Reporting to your shift team leader (line manager) and a HEO Plant Health & Seeds inspector as technical expert, plan and undertake a programme of tasks, working independently and /or as part of a team. Statutory inspection of fresh Horticultural produce, imported plants, planting material and plant produce to ensure compliance with import regulations. Extensive training and support will be given in inspection and identification methods. Responsibilities Able to take part in a shift rota to cover 24 / 7 operations for 365 days a year Able to work safely adhering to all APHA and BCP safety policies Receive Enforcement and Witness Statement training to enable you to act as an expert witness and develop your professional skills. Ensure administrative functions are delivered accurately and in accordance with established timescales and delivery/performance measures, following correct processes, procedures and instructions. In addition to physical inspection procedures, ensure that documents accompanying imported material are satisfactory and in accord with phytosanitary measures and the standards required for the marketing of fresh horticultural produce. Be aware of resource constraints and potential issues to delivery, take a proactive approach to resolve and offer solutions, making senior managers aware as appropriate. Provide support and guidance to others (internally and externally) on procedures and policies. Manage customer expectation in line with policies, targets and legislation. Escalate to both Team Leader and Technical Lead when interceptions / non-compliance found. Be prepared to undertake difficult conversations with customers, stakeholders and/or delivery partners. Liaise closely with various regulatory bodies such as Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, UK Border Force, Port Health, Animal Health authorities & Border Control Point operations management. Work with BCP Traffic Marshals to prevent unnecessary delays to inspections and the transit of goods. To assist in other tasks or duties they have experience in or have been trained on which when undertaken can further their personal development as per agreement in Performance Management Record with a time limit to enhance prospects of career progression. Essential Criteria The Border Control Inspector will; Have a full driving license and independent access to their own transport Be committed to training and continued development in service delivery Be able to communicate clearly complex issues to customers both internally & Externally Be able to work collaboratively in a high-pressure time sensitive environment with delivery partners Be fully IT literate to examine on line applications, delivery plans and record findings via a paperless system Have good planning and organisational skills. Positively respond to change Ability to meet targets and re-prioritise work An understanding of the Horticultural Industry , Biosecurity, Pest & Diseases would be an advantage Licences Candidates must have a valid driving license (manual or automatic)and independent use of a car to travel between sites. Qualifications Educated to GCSE Level or equivalent with passes at grade C or above in English Maths and a science Behaviours We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Delivering at Pace Communicating and Influencing Making Effective Decisions Benefits • Learning and development tailored to your role • An environment with flexible working options • A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity • A Civil Service pension

The Animal and Plant Health Agency, an international reference laboratory, safeguards animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and economy by identifying, managing and eradicating animal diseases. By joining us, you will be part of an organisation with a wide range of important priorities and long-term future developments. We conduct research into bacterial, viral and prion diseases and vaccines, facilitate international trade, identify and control endemic and exotic diseases, manage disease surveillance programmes and protect endangered wildlife. We are seeking two experienced, senior animal technologists for two permanent posts in our Pathology and Animal Sciences Department. You will work in a large, versatile and flexible team with animal technicians, vets and scientists. You will manage animal husbandry and welfare of a wide range of species, perform regulated procedures under licence, develop and maintain rigorous biosafety (ACDP/SAPO), and Home Office standards in our high containment and specialised biosecure animal facilities. You will also be a key contact for in-vivo studies, coordinating with animal technicians, scientists and vets to ensure efficient delivery. You will have the opportunity to be involved in the long-term site development plan, promote animal welfare research and take part in cutting edge research. APHA offers an excellent benefit package, as well as exciting career progressions such as Masters or PhD programmes. UK residency is required from 3 years for the level of Security. However, residency qualification may be reduced for certain roles and will be considered on a case by case basis. Should you be successful at interview you will be required to complete CTC security checks along with Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) check. This includes: identity, employment status, nationality and immigration status, criminal records and any other essential pre-employment checks. Closing date for applications is 21 st January 2022 Interviews are expected to take place at Weybridge; expected about three weeks after closing date. For informal enquiries about the position or to apply for the role please click the apply button