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- Tasks: Join us as a Plankton Ecologist, studying aquatic ecosystems and contributing to vital research.
- Company: AFBI is a leading institute focused on agri-food and biosciences, making a real impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, potential for remote work, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, engage in meaningful research, and help protect our environment.
- Qualifications: A background in ecology or related fields is essential; passion for marine life is a plus!
- Other info: We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, especially women and those from a Roman Catholic background.
The predicted salary is between 35560 - 36783 £ per year.
Plankton Ecologist: Higher Scientific Officer (HSO), AFBI
DEPARTMENT: AFBI – Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
SALARY: £35,560 – £36,783 (£37,694 – £38,990 with effect from 1 August 2025)
LOCATION: AFBI Headquarters, Newforge Lane Belfast, BT9 5PX
Further appointments may be made from this competition should AFBI positions become vacant which have similar duties and responsibilities.
For more detailed information, including the duties and responsibilities of the post, and the criteria to be used during the recruitment and selection process, please click on the Candidate Information Booklet link below.
In order to apply for this position, please click on the “Apply for this job online” link below to register to this vacancy and to submit an online application.
Completed application forms must be submitted no later than 12:00 noon (UK time) on Friday 15th August 2025.
We would particularly welcome applications from females and those from a Roman Catholic background.
ALL APPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYMENT ARE CONSIDERED STRICTLY ON THE BASIS OF MERIT
All queries can be directed to HRConnect by:
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Plankton Ecologist: Higher Scientific Officer (HSO), AFBI employer: Northern Ireland Civil Service
Contact Detail:
Northern Ireland Civil Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Plankton Ecologist: Higher Scientific Officer (HSO), AFBI
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in plankton ecology. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of aquatic sciences. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet current employees of AFBI or similar organisations, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by reviewing common topics related to plankton ecology and the specific responsibilities of a Higher Scientific Officer. Practising your responses can boost your confidence and help you articulate your knowledge effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on AFBI's projects and initiatives. Understanding their current work and how you can contribute will give you an edge in discussions and show that you are proactive about your potential role.
We think you need these skills to ace Plankton Ecologist: Higher Scientific Officer (HSO), AFBI
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the Candidate Information Booklet thoroughly to grasp the specific duties and responsibilities of the Plankton Ecologist position. This will help tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and application form, emphasise any previous work or research related to plankton ecology or similar fields. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise and how it aligns with the job requirements.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that reflects your passion for the role and the organisation. Make sure to connect your academic background and professional experiences to the objectives of AFBI.
Review and Submit: Before submitting your application, double-check for any errors or omissions. Ensure all required documents are included and that your application is submitted by the deadline of 12:00 noon on Friday 15th August 2025.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Ireland Civil Service
✨Know Your Plankton
Make sure you have a solid understanding of plankton ecology and the specific responsibilities of a Higher Scientific Officer. Brush up on recent research and methodologies in the field, as this will demonstrate your expertise and passion for the subject.
✨Familiarise Yourself with AFBI
Research the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute and its mission. Understanding their projects and values will help you align your answers with their goals during the interview, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their work.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to your field. Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences, data analysis skills, and any relevant software or tools you’ve used. Being able to articulate your technical knowledge will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
As a Higher Scientific Officer, collaboration is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams, resolved conflicts, or contributed to group projects. Highlighting your interpersonal skills will demonstrate that you can thrive in a collaborative environment.
