At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead ethical reviews and promote animal welfare in research on exotic diseases.
- Company: Join APHA, a key player in animal health and welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy job security, work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare and disease control in Great Britain.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in animal science or veterinary practice.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a supportive team environment.
The predicted salary is between 62000 - 62000 £ per year.
Do you want to be part of a team protecting Great Britain from exotic and notifiable diseases? Are you interested in research on these diseases, particularly animal research, and want to have a say on the ethical approval of such studies, taking into account the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement)? Do you want to interact with different departments and disciplines to promote animal science within APHA? If so, why not join us and make a difference to control and eradicate disease in animals with animal welfare at heart.
About the role
As chair of APHA’s Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB) you ensure that the ethical review process is followed as outlined under the Animal (Scientific) Procedures Act 1986 (ASPA), approve animal studies that fall under the Act and function as deputy for the Establishment Licence holder. As Named Information Officer you will contribute to the development of new procedural techniques or skills in unfamiliar species and play an active role in implementing animal welfare and the 3Rs. As Discipline Lead you are responsible for building capability, expertise, and networks in animal science to support APHA’s science strategy, and for developing a strategic plan for the discipline. Additionally, if you are a veterinarian, there may be the option to contribute as Named Veterinary Surgeon.
About you
You will be required to have excellent communication skills to act as chair and discipline lead, liaising with a diverse range of people, using all modern communication tools, in writing and verbally. You will use electronic communication tools, including online diaries, SharePoint, Excel, PowerPoint and Word. You will liaise frequently with others, both internally and external to APHA, and contribute to building a strong team.
Benefits
We offer excellent mentoring and CPD opportunities, including degree opportunities up to PhD level along with long-term job security, a great work‑life balance with 37 hours per week and Civil Service benefit package. Our benefits include employee Assistance Programme, access to Civil Service Benevolent Fund, Civil Service Pension and 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays), rising to 30 days with length of service.
Where to go from here
For informal discussion, please contact Timm Konold at Timm.Konold@apha.gov.uk. Closing date: Tuesday 12 May 2026 at 23:55 BST. £62,000 pro rata if applicable.
Chair of AWERB, Named Information Officer and Discipline Lead for Animal Sciences in Weybridge 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 Chair of AWERB, Named Information Officer and Discipline Lead for Animal Sciences in Weybridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at APHA on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insights into the role and help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on the 3Rs and recent developments in animal welfare. We want to show that we're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our communication skills! Since this role involves liaising with various departments, let’s rehearse how we’d explain complex topics clearly and concisely.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Chair of AWERB, Named Information Officer and Discipline Lead for Animal Sciences in Weybridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see how you can contribute to protecting Great Britain from exotic diseases, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, be sure to demonstrate your ability to liaise with diverse groups. Use clear and concise language in your written application to reflect your capability in this area.
Highlight Your Ethical Understanding: Given the focus on ethical approval and the 3Rs, it’s important to express your understanding of these principles in your application. We’re looking for candidates who are passionate about animal welfare and can articulate their commitment to ethical research practices.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Animal and Plant Health Agency
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Animal (Scientific) Procedures Act 1986 and the 3Rs principles. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about animal welfare and ethical research.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves liaising with a diverse range of people, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated complex ideas to different audiences.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Prepare to discuss how you've built strong teams in the past. Highlight your ability to collaborate across disciplines and how you can contribute to promoting animal science within APHA.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking insightful questions about the role or the organisation. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.