The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, working on behalf of the Scottish and Welsh Governments. Our diverse teams of over 3,000 professionals provide research, advice, and support to the UK Government to safeguard animal, public, and plant health, benefiting the environment and economy. We are committed to being an inclusive employer, offering equitable opportunities for all, and aim to build a diverse workforce, encouraging applications from all backgrounds and underrepresented groups.
About the Science Directorate
The Science Directorate (SD) delivers high-quality, impactful, and relevant multidisciplinary science. Our staff are diverse, talented, engaged, and inspired to deliver innovative outcomes.
Job Purpose
The role involves being part of a team conducting sample testing to diagnose animal diseases, monitor animal health, screen for exotic disease incursions, and perform statutory testing. Tests include parasitology, serology, and microbiology. Initial training will be provided in Parasitology. Responsibilities include:
Parasitology Duties
* Perform parasitological techniques to identify and count ecto- and endoparasites, including:
* Speciation of coccidial oocysts
* Detection of Haemonchus spp. eggs using FITC-labelled peanut agglutinin
* Identification of Giardia cysts
* Fluke egg detection via faecal sedimentation
* Identification of faecal nematode eggs and coccidial oocysts
* Isolation of lungworm larvae from faeces using the Baermann technique
* Worm counting in the ruminant alimentary tract
* Diagnosis of Dirofilaria immitis and microfilariae, including canine and feline heartworm, via filtration technique
* Preparation of reagents and sterile equipment
* Staining for specific organisms such as Cryptosporidia
Gamma Interferon Testing
* Process all gamma testing samples efficiently
* Maintain records of reagents and consumables
* Register submissions in the LIMS system
* Stimulate high volumes of whole blood samples
* Perform ELISA testing
* Enter sample data accurately
Salmonella Testing
* Isolate and serotype Salmonella from diagnostic samples
Health and Safety
* Follow safety policies and procedures to foster a positive safety culture
* Understand and adhere to controls in risk assessments
* Maintain laboratory equipment
* Participate in safety exercises, training, and audits
Quality Assurance
* Keep accurate records
* Follow Standard Operating Procedures and ISO 17025 standards
* Participate in proficiency testing and audits
Post Mortem Room Duties
* Assist veterinary colleagues with sampling
* Prepare and read smears
* Manage sample storage, archiving, and disposal
* Dispatch samples for processing
* Handle carcass waste manually
Administrative Support
* Assist with administrative duties, including handling inquiries and using IT systems
Outbreak Response
* Be flexible and adaptable to support outbreak responses and other departmental needs
Additional Information
APHA is a Disability Confident employer, offering interviews to applicants with disabilities who meet minimum criteria. For more details, please visit our website.
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