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- Tasks: Lead research on viral diseases in livestock and improve animal health.
- Company: Join the Animal and Plant Health Agency, dedicated to safeguarding animal health.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, pension contributions, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team making a real impact in animal health and disease control.
- Qualifications: Seeking an established immunologist with virology experience and a passion for research.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for personal development are available.
The predicted salary is between 44500 - 47000 £ per year.
Senior Immunologist (Virology Dept)
Reference number: 418267
Salary: £44,500. Pro-rata salary for job share. This post offers the successful candidate the opportunity to receive an additional pay supplement of £2,500 upon appointment. Please see under \’salary\’ for further information. A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%.
Contract type: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time, Job share
Location: Addlestone, Surrey
The Animal and Plant Health Agency safeguards animal health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy by identifying, managing and eradicating animal diseases. Working in an exciting scientific environment identifying and combatting viral diseases in livestock, we are looking for an experienced immunologist to work in the mammalian virology group to play a major part in helping us to improve animal health. Leading scientific research into the interaction of viral pathogens of mammalian livestock with their hosts and the mechanisms that vaccines employ, you will undertake investigations to improve disease control. It is varied and exciting work where you will be part of a vibrant, intellectually curious team. You will design and complete projects, oversee day-to-day laboratory work in standard and high containment facilities. As a senior scientist, you will provide immunological expertise across the group, developing junior team members and students, and oversee flow cytometry and high-plex spatial imaging across the team. To share knowledge, we will expect you to publish in high impact peer-reviewed journals, present your work on both the national and international stage and to develop collaborative research proposals to funding bodies. An established researcher, with a track record in immunology and with an understanding of virology or infectious diseases, is sought. To interrogate host-pathogen interactions you will also have an appreciation of -omics technologies and systems approaches. In return for your dedication, we offer development opportunities, and you will also enjoy Civil Service benefits.
Benefits
Alongside your salary of £44,500, Animal and Plant Health Agency contributes £12,891 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
In return for your dedication and hard work, we will support your ongoing personal development through appropriate training as 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 generous employer contributory pension , staff bonuses and recognition, salary sacrifice benefit options, and an employee discount scheme, reward vouchers and in-year bonuses. We also offer additional days off if accrued extra hours (flexi-time -if accumulated), three paid volunteering day per year. We also have a social committee who run team building and fun events at the Weybridge site. Further details can be found in the Candidate Information Pack.
Everyone in APHA is supported to develop their skills and capabilities. When you join the Directorate, you will be welcomed into your new team through an induction programme that will provide you with helpful information on the civil service, our work and our policies. Your line manager will also work with you to establish your priorities for the year, developing a performance, learning and development plan tailored to you and your role.
Closing date: 26 August 2025.
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Senior Immunologist (Virology Dept) employer: Animal and Plant Health Agency
Contact Detail:
Animal and Plant Health Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Immunologist (Virology Dept)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of immunology and virology. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet current employees or researchers from the Animal and Plant Health Agency. This can give you insights into their work culture and potentially lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest research and advancements in immunology and virology. Follow key journals and publications, and engage with the content by sharing your thoughts on social media or professional platforms like LinkedIn. This demonstrates your passion and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current or former employees of the Animal and Plant Health Agency for informational interviews. This can provide you with valuable insights about the role and the organisation, and help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the job description. Be ready to explain your understanding of host-pathogen interactions and any experience you have with -omics technologies, as these are crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Immunologist (Virology Dept)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Immunologist position. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, required skills, and the specific focus on virology and immunology to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in immunology and virology. Include specific examples of past research, projects, or publications that demonstrate your expertise and contributions to the field.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight any relevant skills such as flow cytometry, high-plex spatial imaging, and knowledge of -omics technologies. Mention how these skills will contribute to the team and the organisation's goals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that connects your background to the mission of the Animal and Plant Health Agency. Discuss your passion for animal health and how you can contribute to their efforts in combating viral diseases.
How to prepare for a job interview at Animal and Plant Health Agency
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in immunology and virology. Be prepared to discuss your previous work and how it relates to the role, especially regarding host-pathogen interactions and vaccine mechanisms.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior scientist, you'll be expected to lead projects and mentor junior team members. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, highlighting your ability to develop others.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to flow cytometry and high-plex spatial imaging. Familiarise yourself with these techniques and be ready to explain how you've used them in your research.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
The role involves developing collaborative research proposals. Think of examples where you've worked with others, whether in academia or industry, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a vibrant team environment.
