Microbial Genomics Scientist

APHA; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in the UK is seeking a Microbial Genomics Scientist to support epidemiological investigations of bovine tuberculosis. Responsibilities include processing genomic data, generating reports, and potentially working in CL3 laboratories. Applicants should have relevant scientific experience and knowledge in bacteriology or genomics. The role offers a full-time position with generous benefits and annual leave.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Contributory pension

Staff bonuses

Employee discount scheme

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic applicants with strong science background and relevant experience are preferred.
• Broad knowledge of bacteriology and/or genomics is essential.

Responsibilities

• Process whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data and perform phylogenetic analysis.
• Generate reports and liaise with stakeholders regarding findings.
• Potential laboratory work in Containment level 3 (CL3) facilities.

Skills

Strong science background

Knowledge of bacteriology

Knowledge of genomics

Ability to work independently

Ability to work as part of a team

Job description

Overview

Microbial Genomics Scientist — Grade: Higher Scientific Officer. Contract type: Permanent. Working pattern: Full-time, Job share, Part-time. Location: New Haw, South East England, KT15 3NB.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is an Executive Agency of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, and works on behalf of the Scottish Government and Welsh Government. Our diverse teams of over 3,000 skilled and committed professionals come together to safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of our environment, and the economy.

Role and responsibilities

• Processing of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data, phylogenetic and modelling analysis to support epidemiological investigations of bovine tuberculosis (BTB) outbreaks.
• Generation of reports and liaison with stakeholders to support interpretation of findings.
• Possibility of cover laboratory work in Containment level 3 (CL3) facilities for preparation of cultures and maintenance of the TB isolate collection.

Qualifications and experience

• Enthusiastic applicants with a strong science background and relevant experience.
• Broad knowledge of bacteriology and/or genomics.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Location and site context

This post is based at our specialised laboratory site in Weybridge, Surrey, where an extensive redevelopment programme is underway to provide world-class facilities for our science and people.

Other information

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.

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: 30 September 2025