29982 - Senior Technical and Scientific Officer- Molecular

At the Environment Agency we aspire for inclusivity to thrive in our workforce. We embrace equal opportunities and flexible work arrangements, ensuring everyone can contribute and succeed., This role focuses on the delivery, management and operation of our molecular services, overseeing sample processing, ensuring quality standards, data analyses, interpretation and reporting. You will use a range of modern molecular methods (PCR, qPCR, DNA/RNA extractions, high-throughput sequencing), aiding the NFLs ability to detect, monitor and manage fish populations, pathogens of fish and non-native species. You will also help to deliver the scientific evidence to strengthen our operational and regulatory duties with the aim to maintain, improve, and develop freshwater fisheries in England.

A key element of your role is the development of our molecular service, for example using innovative monitoring tools for the detection of priority species and pathogens, and for broader environmental monitoring. You will primarily support our eDNA monitoring workflow, including biodiversity metabarcoding and pathogen surveillance. You will drive standards and seek opportunities for better ways of working, advising on sample design and interpretation of outputs to better inform fisheries management and monitoring of fish populations

This is a senior role with responsibilities including the supervision and training of staff from diverse backgrounds and working with other senior team members to facilitate the smooth delivery of our services and in managing a growing portfolio of work. You will have grounded experience of working in molecular laboratories and be comfortable working with internal and external partners. You will be expected to adhere to the highest standards of health, safety, and wellbeing.

The team
National experts, the NFL protect the environment from risks associated with fish disease and non-native fish species, our work also directly contributes to the organisation's monitoring and regulation of fish and fisheries. We identify, monitor and limit the impact of current and future threats to fisheries and the aquatic environment through the delivery of post-mortem and laboratory diagnostics (parasitology, bacteriology, histology, molecular, ageing) and the provision of technical advice and guidance to inform our regulations.

We are seeking a Grade 4 Technical and Scientific Officer with experience in molecular biology to join the National Fisheries Laboratory (NFL) team in Brampton, Cambridgeshire on a 24-month contract (with potential for the role to become permanent)., Sound scientific knowledge of molecular tools and approaches, degree level or equivalent, with experience in the collection, processing, and analysis of molecular data is essential to this role.

Experience working in laboratory teams, leading people or areas of work and overseeing the day to day running of a laboratory.
Knowledge of disease diagnostic principles such as DNA/RNA handling, PCR, and sequencing, freshwater fish diseases and freshwater fisheries monitoring including eDNA is preferable.

A strong team ethic is essential, as is an ability to work independently and as part of a highly motivated and technical team.
Be self-motivated, inquisitive, organised, and with excellent attention to detail.

Be able to prioritise demanding seasonal workloads, work under pressure to meet varied demands, be comfortable working to tight deadlines, and have a clear pragmatic approach to achieving objectives.

An excellent communicator at all levels and in various forms, with strong influencing and inter-personal skills.