Job Description

Modern Apprenticeship – Assistant Potato Pathologist

An opportunity has arisen to join the Potato, Virology & Zoology (V&Z) branch within the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) division of Scottish Government. The core function of the branch is to carry out diagnostic testing on a range of samples to meet the Scottish Government’s commitments in relation to Seed Potato Classification and Plant Health Regulations.

The Assistant Potato Pathologist role is a permanent position which supports the Scottish Seed Potato Classification Scheme (SPCS).

As a modern apprentice in the Pathology team, you will learn how to isolate and maintain bacterial and fungal pathogens of potatoes using a range of microbiological techniques.
You will learn how to detect bacterial, fungal and virological pathogens of potatoes using a range of molecular (PCR, QPCR) and immunological (ELISA) methods.

You will work towards achieving an SCQF qualification in laboratory techniques.

The Potato Pathology Team is made up of the Potato Pathology Manager, Potato Pathologist, and Modern Apprentice Assistant Potato Pathologist (this role).We work closely with the Virology Team who are the Virology Laboratory Manager and two Virology Diagnosticians.

The MA Potato Pathologist will support the Potato Pathology Team to provide diagnostic services in support of the Scottish Seed Potato Classification Scheme (SPCS) and will work towards a SCQF qualification.

Responsibilities

• Assist with receipt and processing of potato samples for laboratory analysis.

• Assist with the delivery of the potato diagnostic service to detect and identify potato infecting pathogens.

• Assist with maintenance of the potato pathology culture collection, learning aseptic techniques

• Support the lab manager and wider pathology team with day-to-day running of the lab.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive A3 employees.

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Selection Process

All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.

Informal discussion dates tbc.

Please be advised this vacancy is open only to Priority Movers.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact louise.feehan@sasa.gov.scot

Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.