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- Tasks: Lead a team of scientists in tackling animal and plant health challenges.
- Company: Join the Animal & Plant Health Agency, a key player in safeguarding our environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, pension contributions, bonuses, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Work at a vital national laboratory with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public health and environmental safety while leading innovative research.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in veterinary bacteriology with a strong scientific background.
The predicted salary is between 73165 - 73165 £ per year.
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 Agency is seeking an experienced leader, with an international reputation in an aspect of veterinary bacteriology, to head a team of c. 110 scientists, technicians and support staff. You will provide scientific leadership and management oversight to teams delivering activities including diagnostics, surveillance, national and international reference laboratory functions and a large programme of underpinning research delivered on behalf of government or other funders.
Our activities encompass a spectrum of endemic and exotic pathogens, ensuring preparedness for newly emerging threats and cross-cutting challenges, such as identifying and addressing antimicrobial resistance.
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.
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 and have a minimum of 3 years continuous UK residency.
Closing date: 12 May 2026.
Head of Bacteriology in Addlestone employer: Animal & Plant Health Agency
Contact Detail:
Animal & Plant Health Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Bacteriology in Addlestone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of bacteriology, especially those connected to APHA. Attend relevant conferences or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current issues in veterinary bacteriology. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with APHA's mission. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely passionate about animal health and disease prevention.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to leverage social media! Follow APHA on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Engage with their posts and share your insights on relevant topics. This can help you get noticed and show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of Bacteriology position. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your leadership skills and experience in managing teams, as this is key for the role. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Bacteriology in Addlestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Bacteriology role. Highlight your experience in veterinary bacteriology and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at APHA!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about animal health and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific projects or achievements that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a leader, we need to see how you manage teams and drive scientific research. Include examples of how you've led successful projects or initiatives in the past. This will help us understand your management style and vision.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at APHA!
How to prepare for a job interview at Animal & Plant Health Agency
✨Know Your Bacteriology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in veterinary bacteriology. Be prepared to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the work at the Animal & Plant Health Agency. This shows your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Bacteriology, you'll need to lead a team of scientists and technicians. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your approach to fostering collaboration and innovation within your group.
✨Understand the Agency's Role
Familiarise yourself with the APHA's mission and recent initiatives. Being able to articulate how your vision aligns with their goals will demonstrate your commitment to their work and your potential as a leader in the agency.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially in high-pressure situations like disease outbreaks. Think of specific scenarios from your past experience where you successfully navigated challenges and what you learned from them.