Defra Group Bacterial Characterisation Workgroup Leader

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 Bacteriology Department is seeking a leader for the Bacterial Characterisation Workgroup (c. 32 staff), which is one of five Workgroups within the Department. The Workgroup delivers the research element of the Bacterial Diseases & Food Safety portfolio providing evidence in support of policy, as well as supporting diagnostics and surveillance, with oversight of national and international reference laboratories. You will lead the team in resourcing and delivery, provide leadership in people management, and ensure the delivery of science across the Workgroup in an appropriate environment according to relevant Health & Safety and Quality standards.

Applicants with strong science background & leadership skills who have demonstrated expertise in genomics and molecular microbiology & success in securing competitive research funding are invited to apply. Applicants should have an undergraduate degree and PhD in a relevant scientific discipline with significant postdoctoral and leadership experience.

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: 31 August 2026.

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