Chair of AWERB, Named Information Officer and Discipline Lead for Animal Sciences

Do you want to be part of a team protecting Great Britain from exotic and notifiable diseases? Are you interested in research on these diseases, particularly animal research, and want to have a say on the ethical approval of such studies, taking into account the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement)? Do you want to interact with different departments and disciplines to promote animal science within APHA? If so, why not join us and make a difference to control and eradicate disease in animals with animal welfare at heart.

About the role

As chair of APHA’s Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB) you ensure that the ethical review process is followed as outlined under the Animal (Scientific) Procedures Act 1986 (ASPA), approve animal studies that fall under the Act and function as deputy for the Establishment Licence holder. As Named Information Officer you will contribute to the development of new procedural techniques or skills in unfamiliar species and play an active role in implementing animal welfare and the 3Rs. As Discipline Lead you are responsible for building capability, expertise, and networks in animal science to support APHA’s science strategy, and for developing a strategic plan for the discipline. Additionally, if you are a veterinarian, there may be the option to contribute as Named Veterinary Surgeon.

About you

You will be required to have excellent communication skills to act as chair and discipline lead, liaising with a diverse range of people, using all modern communication tools, in writing and verbally. You will use electronic communication tools, including online diaries, SharePoint, Excel, PowerPoint and Word. You will liaise frequently with others, both internally and external to APHA, and contribute to building a strong team.

Benefits

We offer excellent mentoring and CPD opportunities, including degree opportunities up to PhD level along with long-term job security, a great work-life balance with 37 hours per week and Civil Service benefit package. Our benefits include employee Assistance Programme, access to Civil Service Benevolent Fund, Civil Service Pension and 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays), rising to 30 days with length of service.

Where to go from here

For informal discussion, please contact Timm Konold (Timm.Konold@apha.gov.uk)

Closing date: Tuesday 12 May 2026 at 23:55 BST.