Defra Group Senior Scientist – Emerging Virus Research Team

At the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), our broad aim is to improve disease control in the UK. As one of our senior research scientists, you’ll play a key role in achieving this aim by the investigation of veterinary viruses, particularly those that are notifiable and/or may have zoonotic potential.

The Role

You’ll manage your own research objectives, designing approaches for investigations, hitting key milestones and publishing results. You’ll take the lead and execute research on the pathogenesis and epidemiology of veterinary viruses, particularly those relevant to equids. You’ll lead the National Reference Laboratories for equine viral diseases, provide crucial support on our disease emergency responses as well as monitoring for emerging viruses and contributing to the research strategy for our Mammalian Virology workgroup.

Beyond this, you’ll provide consultancy on these viruses to stakeholders such as the UK government and Industry. You will line manage and supervise staff and students to help develop the next generation of scientists. You will also assist the team to maintain the appropriate quality standards and a safe working environment.

Who we’re looking for

You’ll be an experienced virologist and hold a PhD with post-doc or equivalent experience. Knowledge/experience of working in a Reference Laboratory setting and/or with equine viral diseases is desirable but not essential.

You’ll also be a skilled communicator with strong analytical capabilities and relationship-building skills. You’ll also have a good knowledge of safety and quality standards.

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:

• Additional pay supplement upon appointment of £2500 per annum. There is a further pay supplement up to £2,500 which may be offered based on candidate’s annual competency assessment.
• 25 days holiday (rising over 5 years to 30 days), 8 Bank holidays, and an additional day in to mark the King’s birthday
• Flexible working options where appropriate
• A choice of two pensions schemes
• A staff recognition scheme
• Interest free loans towards season tickets, or the cost of a bike

About us

At the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), we are proud to use our professionalism and expertise to safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of the environment, the economy and the millions of people who live here.

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 in animals, identify and control endemic and exotic diseases, and manage a programme of bee inspections, diagnostics, research and training.

Related skills: Life Science, Cell & Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Laboratory

Website: Animal and Plant Health Agency

Closing date: 20 January 2026.

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