Applications for this job are now closed
We at the Department of Life Science, Aberystwyth University, are seeking to appoint a dynamic and highly motivated field-based technician to work on our BBSRC funded “Precision Solutions for the Control of Fasciolosis in Sheep” research project.
The role
This three-year project aims to develop novel interventions to sustainably control liver fluke in sheep via molecular, precision farming and social science methodologies, and will be completed in conjunction with project partners Ridgeway Research, the Welsh Veterinary Science Centre, Menter a Busnes and the Farmers Union of Wales. Based on the Penglais campus in Aberystwyth, the role will also involve travel to participating sheep farms across Wales and project partner sites to undertake research activities.
What you'll do
As part of this role the successful candidate will have two main duties
- Support field and laboratory research activities which will include on farm environmental and animal sampling, animal performance recording and parasitology laboratory protocols.
- Liaising with participating farmers and with project partners to coordinate research and knowledge exchange activities. As such candidates should have excellent knowledge of the UK sheep industry, experience in handling sheep and be comfortable in interacting and engaging with participating farmers and project partners. Experience of laboratory work, specifically parasitology protocols, is also essential.
There may also be an opportunity to register for and complete a postgraduate degree alongside this role, subject to the candidate meeting course entry requirements.
Appointments are normally made within 4 - 8 weeks of the closing date.
What you’ll do
This job description is subject to review and amendment in the light of the changing needs of the University, to provide appropriate development opportunities and/or the addition of any other reasonable duties.
The Precision Solutions for the Control of Fasciolosis in Sheep project is funded by BBSRC as part of their Develop solutions for endemic livestock disease: phase two funding.
The project aims to develop novel interventions to sustainably control liver fluke in sheep and will be led by a team of world leading parasitologists, livestock scientist, veterinarians and social scientists at the Department of Life Science Aberystwyth University. Specifically, the project will evaluate the merits of performance and behavioural measures to identify sheep infected with liver fluke, assess farmer understanding of fluke infection risk areas on their farmland along with potential infection mitigation strategies, and use environmental DNA and protein analysis to map liver fluke infection risk areas on farms.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
- Collect environmental and animal samples and record data in the field following research protocols.
- Support and/or perform parasitology laboratory protocols.
- Coordinate research and knowledge exchange activities between the project team, participating farmers and project partners.
- To undertake health and safety duties and responsibilities appropriate to the post.
- To be committed to the University’s Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy, together with an understanding of how it operates within the responsibilities of the post.
- To be committed to your own development and that of your staff through the effective use of the University’s Effective Contribution Scheme.
- Any other reasonable duties requested commensurate with the grade of this role.
About you
- Full valid UK driving licence, or equivalent right to drive in the UK.
- Degree in agriculture, animal science, veterinary bioscience or a related field or extensive experience working within livestock or veterinary research or related field.
- Ability to competently handle livestock.
- Ability to independently conduct laboratory-based parasitology protocols.
- Ability to communicate effectively with farmers and industry stakeholders.
- Knowledge of the Welsh agricultural industry
- Ability to collect and prepare experimental samples for future analysis.
- Proven ability in meticulous record keeping and good research practice.
- Good level of computer literacy for data collation and management.
- Self-motivated with evidence of independence within a larger team.
- Good communications skills and a willingness to engage with colleagues at a similar level in collaborating organisations.
- Awareness of field and laboratory safety, including safe animal and chemical handling, and the ability to work in a safe manner.
- Willingness to work occasional evenings and/or weekends to provide support for out of hours field sampling and knowledge exchange activities.
- An ability to understand the bilingual nature of the University and an awareness of the procedures in place to support working bilingually.
Desirable
- Experience of veterinary parasitology research.
- Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving.
- Hold a valid Home Office Personal Licence for Animal Research
- Oral (spoken) and Written Welsh Level B1.*
How to apply
To promote a flexible workforce, the University will consider applications from individuals seeking full time, part time, job share, or term time only working arrangements.
Applications for this role must be made through jobs.aber.ac.uk. You are welcome to apply for any vacancy in Welsh or English and any application submitted will be treated equally.
Benefits
- Flexible working policy
- 36.5 – hour week for full-time roles
- Generous leave entitlements – 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays and university closed days.
- Commitment to Professional Development
- Enhanced contribution to our workplace pension schemes.
- Staff recognition and reward schemes
- Opportunity to learn the Welsh language for free.
- Staff relocation bursary
- Maternity, Paternity, Parental and Adoption Leave
- Staff discount for gym facilities, hospitality, and retail on campus.
