Job Description

Fera Science is on the lookout for talented graduates to join us in 2026 to make an invaluable contribution to our food Safety & Biosecurity!
As a graduate, you will begin your career as an assistant scientist in our Plant Protection Program. In this role, you will work closely with the scientists and technical specialists in your area, preparing and testing samples, for plant health, pests and diseases, and creating reports, contributing to vital commercial research projects. Possible areas of expertise include bee health, virology, nematology, entomology, mycology, molecular, seeds, bacteriology, plant pathology, natural capital, and ecology.
What you'll be doing:

• Deliver scientific excellence in accordance with protocols and standard operating procedures (SOP's).
• Identify and diagnose pathogens and pests, using a range of methods including, but not limited to, microscopy, ELISA and PCR.
• Prepare, test and analyse samples, documenting results.
• Explore diagnostic techniques.
• Prepare and label consumables.
• Data entry and validation.
• Carry out general laboratory duties such as cleaning and maintaining facilities and equipment.
• Work alongside industry experts in a friendly and engaging environment.
• Have the opportunity to assist other teams in the plant business unit as requires.

What we're looking for:

• Graduates with a keen interest in creating a more sustainable world for generations to come.
• Ideally, qualifications in a science subject, preferably a biology or environmental science discipline or equivalent experience.
• Experience of working in a laboratory is desirable, but not essential and we can teach you!
• A methodical approach to work and attention to detail is key.
• The ability to follow written and verbal instructions efficiently within regulated environments.
• Practical IT experience, in particular Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to keep clear written records.
• An excellent collaborator and communicator.

What's in it for you?
Fera Science is situated on a purpose-built site close to the city of York, where our staff enjoy state of the art facilities including an onsite gym, staff restaurant and tranquil gardens for those sunny lunches!

• ?25 days' holiday (rising to 29) with the opportunity to buy extra leave.
• Flexible working hours, on-site gym, restaurant, and free parking
• The opportunity to take a paid day out of the office, volunteering for our charity partners or a cause of your choice
• Company matched pension, life assurance, a cycle2work scheme, 15 weeks' fully paid maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, paternity pay of two weeks...and plenty more.
• Voluntary benefits designed to suit your lifestyle - from discounts on retail and socialising, to health & wellbeing, travel and technology
• Access to our Employee Network Groups, which represent every strand of diversity and allow colleagues to connect and learn from each other on an open, inclusive platform

What we hope you'll do next:
Choose 'Apply now' to register your interest! If you have any questions you'd like to ask before registering, you can contact
We're an equal opportunity employer, which means we recruit and develop people based on their merit and passion. We're committed to providing an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment process and working environment for everyone. If you need the job description or application form in an alternative format or if you'd like to discuss other changes or support you might need going forward, please email at and we'll get back to you.
At Fera, we're making the world a better, healthier and safer place. We're a joint venture partnership between Bridgepoint and Defra and we're working proactively to protect the world we live in and the food we eat. Our teams are investigating plant and bee health, crop protection and sustainable agriculture. Join us and discover better as you deliver world-class science for the future.

Skills Required