Research Pathologist

Aquatic Animal Health at Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science) integrates research, advice, and regulation in support of Defra’s aquatic animal health policy.
It integrates epidemiology, risk modelling, pathology, molecular biology, and microbiology in undertaking statutory duties and novel research funded by UK government, to support implementation of the animal health regulations.
Employing a range of tools including histology, immunohistochemistry, light microscopy, electron microscopy, laser-capture microdissection and digital pathology, the Pathology Team is primarily responsible for the identification and characterization of aquatic animal diseases, with a focus on fish diseases.
As a lead pathologist, with expertise in histopathology, you will need to possess a proven publication record in the field. You will provide scientific expertise in histopathology and the provision of professional assessments for statutory diagnostic, environmental monitoring, pathogen identification and, wider research of relevance to the health of aquatic environments.
You will collaborate with colleagues at institutes in the UK and abroad for the advancement of aquatic animal health science and participate in expert groups (e.g., WOAH, ICES) to enhance scientific excellence and reputation at Cefas.
There will be opportunities to develop and head national and international research programs and you will be expected to promote UK science at national and international conferences. An essential aspect of the role is a proven ability to communicate scientific outputs via a range of published, visual, spoken, and social media.
Cefas is proud of a diverse and inclusive work environment, committed to fairness and the promotion of equality of opportunity for all. We know that having a range of experiences, backgrounds, ways of working and thinking, makes us a stronger organization, better at reflecting the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates who have not previously worked for the Civil Service, mid- and late-career changers with transferable skills, people from all backgrounds and circumstances regardless of disability, gender, age, ethnicity, LGBT+ identity and socio-economic status.
The postholder will apply their histopathology skills and knowledge to describe cellular and tissue responses for assessment of ecosystem health and the diagnosis and description of aquatic animal diseases for statutory diagnostic and research projects within the Cefas International Centre of Excellence (ICoE).
You will use digital pathology via virtual slide technology platforms for collaboration and training in pathology, and aid in expanding the Registry of Aquatic Pathology (RAP).
Collaborating with colleagues you will develop and apply methods in “pathology” for multi-species of interest through interpretation of changes in tissues. Integrating pathology into our programs of work offers further opportunities for application of the toolbox to national and international programs, including environmental work programs within, and alongside, the ICoE.
Fieldwork in the UK and overseas may be needed to collect samples for research and diagnostic purposes.
You will be expected to lead and support delivery of national and international projects related to aquatic animal pathogen identification and environmental programs, (e.g., You will provide expert scientific advice in support of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Collaborating Centre for Emerging Aquatic Animal Disease (CCEAAD). This will include specialist input to diagnostic cases for emerging aquatic animal disease occurrences as reported to the CCEAAD. Working closely with Cefas colleagues, you will develop research opportunities and secure the national and international collaborations required for delivery.
You will be expected to combine professional technical ability in histopathology with effective communication and leadership skills to develop and grow the influence and reputation of our science.
You will need to possess and maintain a proven publication record, promote Cefas science at national and international conferences and effectively participate in expert groups (e.g., Working within a multidisciplinary team, to identify and describe fish diseases and those affecting other aquatic animals
Knowledge of WOAH procedures, WOAH Aquatic Animal Health Code and the WOAH Manual for Diagnostic Tests for Aquatic Animals
Collaboration with colleagues, and building effective partnerships, to deliver research programs
A proven record of leading high impact scientific reports and peer-reviewed publications
Ability to prioritize workload to ensure project milestones are achieved
Compliance with health and safety procedures and UKAS ISO17025 quality systems, where applicable
A Post-Graduate degree in a biological science where histopathology formed a key component
A Post-Graduate degree in a biological science where histopathology formed a key component.
Scientific Writing: a proven record of peer reviewed publications in high impact journals is essential. able to explain complex scientific information to peers and non-technical customers.
ECO Magazine is a marine science trade publication committed to bringing scientists and professionals the latest ground-breaking research, industry news, and job opportunities from around the world.
The ECO Newsletter is a weekly email featuring the Top 10 stories of the past seven days, providing readers with a convenient way to stay abreast on the latest ocean science and industry news.
#