Overview
Senior Scientific and Policy Officer - Supporting Replacement is an essential contributor to the RSPCAs work to champion the global replacement of animal experiments with humane, non-animal methods. The role provides knowledge, expertise, and advocacy capacity to increase the uptake of non-animal technologies (NATs) and new approach methodologies (NAMs) in science. The postholder will focus on progress within academic institutions (e.g. universities) and help promote policy changes, including central and institutional support, to enable scientists currently using animals in research to move to non-animal methods and approaches. This may include applying human behaviour change techniques to improve awareness, attitudes, motivation and practices. The SSPO will contribute to efforts with the scientific community to challenge how animals are currently used.
The role can be mainly home based, but it will involve travel to meetings, some of which may include overnight stays within the UK and in other countries.
Responsibilities
* Develop and undertake activities relevant to specific research fields and academia, based on findings from the report “Supporting Replacement in Academia - Exploring barriers around the acceptance and uptake of non-animal methods in science in UK academia” and associated stakeholder workshops.
* Review and analyse articles, resources and reports to develop insights into barriers to information about non-animal methods and their acceptance and uptake.
* Obtain information from and liaise with relevant individuals and organisations involved in animal use and/or NATs/NAMs to identify, propose, co-create, advocate for, and implement practical actions for overcoming barriers to faster development and uptake of non-animal methods in the UK and internationally.
We are seeking a match of these skills and encourage you to apply even if you don’t tick every box.
* Ability to work on own initiative, be self-organised and work independently
* Strong communication skills and the ability to present information clearly in talks and in written communications at a range of technical levels
* Ability to review and help redefine a project as it progresses
* Qualification to MSc or PhD level (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (life sciences or social sciences)
* Proven track record within a relevant scientific discipline
* In-depth knowledge of how science is conducted, including fields where animals are used; governing structures, funding processes, and career development pathways
* Understanding of challenges and incentives facing scientists at different career stages; the role of journals and professional bodies
* Demonstrable awareness of current animal use in research, testing and education
* Knowledge of how animal experiments are regulated in the UK, EU and internationally
* Knowledge of the 3Rs and animal welfare and ethical issues related to animal use in science
First stage interviews will take place on the 4th of November, with second interviews on the 10th. The interview process will involve competency-based questions and a task.
We are committed to delivering a positive candidate experience through our recruitment process.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Other
Industries
Non-profit Organizations
EEO statement: We are an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.
J-18808-Ljbffr