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- Tasks: Lead innovative agri-food research projects and contribute to scientific advancements.
- Company: Join the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, a leader in agricultural research.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working locations, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in food security and sustainability through impactful research.
- Qualifications: Strong background in scientific research and a passion for agri-food innovation.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with potential for career advancement across multiple sites.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
DEPARTMENT: Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland (AFBI)
LOCATION: AFBI Stormont, Stoney Road, Belfast, BT4 3SD, however, they may, on occasion, also be expected to work at other sites in Northern Ireland as required.
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 13th March 2026.
ALL APPLICATIONS FOR EMPLOYMENT ARE CONSIDERED STRICTLY ON THE BASIS OF MERIT.
All queries can be directed to HRConnect.
Senior Scientific Officer - Agri-Food Research employer: Northern Ireland Civil Service
Contact Detail:
Northern Ireland Civil Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientific Officer - Agri-Food Research
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at AFBI through LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching AFBI's recent projects in agri-food research. We want to show that we’re not just interested, but genuinely passionate about their work!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a mate. We can nail our responses and feel more confident when it’s time to shine in front of the interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us on their radar and show that we’re keen on the role.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your skills and experiences match what they're looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and criteria.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We recommend you tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in agri-food research. Show us why you're the perfect fit for this Senior Scientific Officer role.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff and focus on what matters!
Submit Before the Deadline: Make sure you submit your application before the deadline of 12:00 noon on Friday 13th March 2026. We don’t want you to miss out on this opportunity, so aim to get it done a bit earlier to avoid any last-minute hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Ireland Civil Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and research in agri-food science. Familiarise yourself with AFBI's recent projects and publications, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of their work.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess how you've handled situations in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on relevant experiences that highlight your skills as a Senior Scientific Officer.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Collaboration is key in research roles. Be ready to discuss examples of how you've worked effectively in teams, especially in cross-disciplinary settings. Highlight any leadership roles you've taken on, even if they were informal.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared about the role or the team dynamics at AFBI. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.