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- Tasks: Join us as an Assistant Scientific Officer, collecting data and conducting research in aquatic ecosystems.
- Company: AFBI is a top scientific research provider, tackling environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hands-on experience, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Dive into exciting fieldwork, collaborate with experts, and contribute to vital environmental science.
- Qualifications: Five GCSEs including Maths, English, and a science subject; driving licence required.
- Other info: Expect physically demanding work in diverse environments, with travel across the UK and Ireland.
The predicted salary is between 19900 - 29900 £ per year.
Assistant Scientific Officer – Fisheries & Aquatic Ecosystems
Location: Newfordge Lane
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Salary: £24,952
About AFBI
The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) is a leading provider of scientific research and services to government, NGOs, and commercial organisations. Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), AFBI delivers impactful science locally, nationally, and internationally.
The Environment and Marine Sciences Division (EMSD) was recently established to address environmental challenges and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. Within this division, the Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems Branch (FAEB) is one of three national marine and freshwater science laboratories in the UK. FAEB supports the sustainable management of productive, healthy, and biodiverse aquatic ecosystems, with a strong focus on the needs of Northern Ireland.
About the Role
AFBI is recruiting Assistant Scientific Officers to support data collection and research across its Marine and Freshwater Fisheries groups. Successful candidates will gain hands-on experience in aquatic science through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and survey participation.
Key Responsibilities
- Work at sea (marine) or on freshwater bodies (freshwater) for up to 120 days per year, including trips of up to three weeks.
- Conduct biological and environmental sampling, including fish, shellfish, plankton, and water chemistry.
- Operate, deploy, and recover scientific and remote-sensing equipment.
- Assist with survey preparation, planning, and execution, including transport of samples, staff, and equipment.
- Process and analyse biological and water samples, with accurate data entry and record-keeping.
- Support report production and survey result summaries using appropriate software.
- Assist in maintaining laboratory equipment and calibration checks in line with ISO9001 standards.
- Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary scientific team.
- Drive AFBI manual vehicles as required.
This is a physically demanding role that may involve adverse conditions, manual handling, motion sickness, and shared accommodation during sea voyages.
Working Conditions & Travel
- Standard working hours: 37 hours per week, Monday-Friday.
- Requirement for early mornings, evenings, weekends, and night shifts, particularly during survey work.
- Marine group: work at sea in challenging weather conditions.
- Freshwater group: work on small boats in lakes and rivers.
- UK and Ireland travel may be required.
- AFBI operates a flexi-working system.
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Five GCSEs (Grades A*-C / 9-4) including Maths, English, and one science subject (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) or equivalent.
- Experience working in a scientific field or laboratory environment.
- Experience working in challenging environmental conditions.
- A full, current UK manual driving licence (or exchangeable equivalent).
Shortlisting Criteria (if required)
- At least 30 days\’ experience working at sea or on freshwater bodies (research or commercial vessels).
- At least 6 months\’ experience participating in aquatic science surveys, including methodologies, preparation, data collection, and data entry.
Why Join AFBI?
- Work with one of the UK\’s leading research organisations.
- Gain unique field and lab experience in marine and freshwater science.
- Contribute to evidence-based science that supports government policy, environmental protection, and sustainable fisheries.
- Be part of a team delivering research from \”the soil to the sea.\”
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ASO Field going Scientist: Marine and Freshwater Fisheries Environment employer: Staffline Group PLC
Contact Detail:
Staffline Group PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land ASO Field going Scientist: Marine and Freshwater Fisheries Environment
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific methodologies used in aquatic science surveys. Understanding techniques for biological and environmental sampling will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of marine and freshwater fisheries. Attend relevant workshops or seminars, and connect with current or former employees of AFBI on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into the work culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the physical demands of the job by engaging in activities that build your stamina and resilience. Being able to demonstrate your readiness for challenging conditions during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research AFBI's recent projects and publications related to marine and freshwater ecosystems. Showing that you are informed about their work and how it aligns with your interests can make a strong impression during any discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace ASO Field going Scientist: Marine and Freshwater Fisheries Environment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in scientific fields, particularly any work related to marine or freshwater environments. Include specific examples of fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data collection that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your passion for aquatic science and your understanding of the role. Mention your experience working in challenging environmental conditions and how it prepares you for this position at AFBI.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you explicitly mention your GCSEs and any other qualifications that meet the requirements. If you have experience with ISO9001 standards or operating scientific equipment, be sure to include that as well.
Showcase Teamwork and Collaboration: AFBI values collaboration within a multidisciplinary team. Provide examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others, especially in field settings or under challenging conditions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Staffline Group PLC
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your knowledge of aquatic ecosystems, marine biology, and fisheries science. Be prepared to discuss relevant methodologies and your previous experiences in the field or lab, as this role requires a solid understanding of scientific principles.
✨Demonstrate Field Experience
Highlight any hands-on experience you have with fieldwork, especially in challenging environments. Be ready to share specific examples of your work at sea or on freshwater bodies, including the types of surveys you've participated in and the equipment you've used.
✨Showcase Teamwork Skills
This role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, so be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in past projects. Share examples of how you contributed to team success and how you handle challenges in a group setting.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about potential challenges you might face while conducting fieldwork or data collection, and be ready to explain how you would approach these situations.