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- Tasks: Assist scientists in plant protection, testing samples, and contributing to vital research projects.
- Company: Fera Science, dedicated to making the world healthier and safer.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, flexible hours, on-site gym, and volunteering opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career development and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and make a real impact on sustainability.
- Qualifications: Graduates with a passion for science, ideally in biology or environmental science.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Fera Science is on the lookout for talented graduates to join us in 2026 to make an invaluable contribution to our food Safety & Biosecurity! As a graduate, you will begin your career as an assistant scientist in our Plant Protection Program. In this role, you will work closely with the scientists and technical specialists in your area, preparing and testing samples for plant health, pests and diseases, and creating reports, contributing to vital commercial research projects. Possible areas of expertise include bee health, virology, nematology, entomology, mycology, molecular, seeds, bacteriology, plant pathology, natural capital, and ecology.
What you’ll be doing:
- Deliver scientific excellence in accordance with protocols and standard operating procedures (SOP’s).
- Identify and diagnose pathogens and pests, using a range of methods including, but not limited to, microscopy, ELISA and PCR.
- Prepare, test and analyse samples, documenting results.
- Explore diagnostic techniques.
- Prepare and label consumables.
- Data entry and validation.
- Carry out general laboratory duties such as cleaning and maintaining facilities and equipment.
- Work alongside industry experts in a friendly and engaging environment.
- Have the opportunity to assist other teams in the plant business unit as required.
What we’re looking for:
- Graduates with a keen interest in creating a more sustainable world for generations to come.
- Ideally, qualifications in a science subject, preferably a biology or environmental science discipline or equivalent experience.
- Experience of working in a laboratory is desirable, but not essential and we can teach you!
- A methodical approach to work and attention to detail is key.
- The ability to follow written and verbal instructions efficiently within regulated environments.
- Practical IT experience, in particular Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to keep clear written records.
- An excellent collaborator and communicator.
What’s in it for you?
- Fera Science is situated on a purpose-built site close to the city of York, where our staff enjoy state of the art facilities including an onsite gym, staff restaurant and tranquil gardens for those sunny lunches!
- 25 days’ holiday (rising to 29) with the opportunity to buy extra leave.
- Flexible working hours, on-site gym, restaurant, and free parking.
- The opportunity to take a paid day out of the office, volunteering for our charity partners or a cause of your choice.
- Company matched pension, life assurance, a cycle2work scheme, 15 weeks’ fully paid maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, paternity pay of two weeks…and plenty more.
- Voluntary benefits designed to suit your lifestyle – from discounts on retail and socialising, to health & wellbeing, travel and technology.
- Access to our Employee Network Groups, which represent every strand of diversity and allow colleagues to connect and learn from each other on an open, inclusive platform.
What we hope you’ll do next:
Choose ‘Apply now’ to register your interest! If you have any questions you’d like to ask before registering, you can contact recruitment@fera.co.uk
We’re an equal opportunity employer, which means we recruit and develop people based on their merit and passion. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment process and working environment for everyone. If you need the job description or application form in an alternative format or if you’d like to discuss other changes or support you might need going forward, please email at recruitment@fera.co.uk and we’ll get back to you.
The Company
At Fera, we’re making the world a better, healthier and safer place. We’re a joint venture partnership between Bridgepoint and Defra and we’re working proactively to protect the world we live in and the food we eat. Our teams are investigating plant and bee health, crop protection and sustainable agriculture. Join us and discover better as you deliver world-class science for the future.
The Benefits
- On-site Gym
- Shopping & Transport Discounts
- Voluntary Benefits to suit your lifestyle
- LTIP/share scheme
Graduate Opportunities Biology - Register Your Interest in York employer: FERA
Contact Detail:
FERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Opportunities Biology - Register Your Interest in York
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni from your university or connect with professionals in the field on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the industry that you won't find in job descriptions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to biology and lab work. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence and get feedback.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for sustainability and science during interviews. Share any relevant projects or experiences, even if they’re from your studies. It’s all about demonstrating your enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for updates and new opportunities that match your interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Opportunities Biology - Register Your Interest in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for biology and environmental science shine through! We want to see how your interests align with our mission of creating a sustainable world.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight any relevant experience, even if it’s from your studies or projects, and connect it back to what we do at Fera Science.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your information well so we can easily see your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to hit that 'Apply now' button on our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the Graduate Opportunities.
How to prepare for a job interview at FERA
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your biology knowledge, especially in areas like plant health, pests, and diseases. Familiarise yourself with techniques such as microscopy, ELISA, and PCR, as these might come up during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability
Fera Science is all about creating a sustainable world. Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about environmental science and how you envision contributing to this mission through your role.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since the role requires a methodical approach, prepare examples from your studies or any lab experience where your attention to detail made a difference. This will show that you can follow protocols and SOPs effectively.
✨Ask Engaging Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Plant Protection Program and the team you'll be working with. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if Fera is the right fit for you.