Head of Bacteriology

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 on 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 and fascinating.

The Agency is seeking an experienced leader, with an international reputation in an aspect of veterinary bacteriology, to head a team of c. 110 scientists, technicians and support staff. You will provide scientific leadership and management oversight to teams delivering activities including diagnostics, surveillance, national and international reference laboratory functions and a large programme of underpinning research delivered on behalf of government or other funders. Our activities encompass a spectrum of endemic and exotic pathogens, ensuring preparedness for newly emerging threats and cross-cutting challenges, such as identifying and addressing antimicrobial resistance.

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 on 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 a minimum of 3 years continuous UK residency.

Closing date: 12 May 2026.

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