HSO Freshwater Fisheries

Higher Scientific Officer - Freshwater Fisheries

Location: Newforge Lane

Hours: 37 hours per week

Salary: £35,560.00

About AFBI & FAEB

The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) is a leading provider of scientific research and services to government, NGOs, and commercial organisations. Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), AFBI delivers evidence-based science that supports sustainable resource management and policy development in Northern Ireland and beyond.

Within AFBI, the Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems Branch (FAEB) conducts research, monitoring, and technology transfer in support of the sustainable management of fisheries and aquatic resources, with a focus on the needs of Northern Ireland.

About the Role

We are seeking a Higher Scientific Officer to support E&I Project 48331, focusing on the reproductive biology of the invasive zebra mussel in the Neagh-Bann system.

The successful candidate will coordinate and lead field and laboratory investigations, support the project leader, and contribute to research outputs that inform sustainable fisheries and aquatic ecosystem management.

The work programme is divided into two streams:

• WP1: Investigations of zebra mussel spread risk via stocking events from the DAERA fish farm at Movanagher.
• WP2: Investigations into zebra mussel reproductive biology in the Neagh-Bann system.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and undertake the scientific sampling of biological specimens (fish and zebra mussels).
• Plan, manage, and conduct field and laboratory work, including supervision of staff during events.
• Disseminate findings at knowledge transfer events.
• Produce technical reports describing research findings and recommendations.
• Work outdoors in inclement weather conditions and conduct sampling from small vessels when required.

Working Conditions

• Standard working hours: 37 hours per week (7 hours 25 minutes per day).
• Flexibility required: overtime, evenings, weekends, and unsociable hours may be necessary due to the nature of the work.
• Fieldwork will include outdoor activities and sampling from small boats in freshwater systems.
• Travel across Northern Ireland may be required.

Essential Criteria

Applicants must demonstrate:

1. PhD in Aquatic Science, Environmental Science or equivalent; OR
2. Primary degree (2:1 or higher) in Aquatic Science, Environmental Science or equivalent, or a postgraduate degree in these areas.
3. Minimum 2 years' postgraduate experience in scientific data management, including competence with spreadsheets, databases, and GIS, with a clear understanding of data quality and sampling protocols.
4. Minimum 2 years' postgraduate experience in planning and executing environmental or aquatic science fieldwork with limited supervision.
5. A full, current driving licence enabling the candidate to fulfil the duties of the role.

Desirable / Shortlisting Criteria

• Lead author on at least one peer-reviewed paper.
• Experience contributing to research projects as part of a team.

Why Join AFBI?

• Be part of a team tackling critical environmental challenges such as invasive species management.
• Gain hands-on experience in fieldwork, laboratory coordination, and project management.
• Work with an organisation that contributes directly to sustainable resource management and policy development.
• Opportunity to contribute to high-impact research influencing fisheries and aquatic ecosystem protection.

Apply Now!
Take the next step in your career and join a rewarding role with AFBI. Apply today or contact Hannah Fitzsimons at [email protected]