Freshwater Laboratory Scientist - #1702409

Are you passionate about freshwater ecology and eager to make a real impact? Do you have experience in identifying macroinvertebrates and a drive to develop specialist taxonomic skills? Have you been looking for an opportunity where your work directly supports environmental conservation and scientific excellence?

APEM Biolabs is seeking a skilled and dedicated Freshwater Scientist, or Senior Freshwater Scientist depending on experience, to join our expert team. Our analysts are at the heart of assessing the health and ecological integrity of freshwater habitats, delivering high-quality results for clients across the water industry, regulatory bodies, and environmental consultancies. We pride ourselves on offering rapid, high-capacity services, while maintaining the flexibility and scientific rigour that our clients trust.

In this role, you will be analysing and processing macroinvertebrate samples to industry-leading standards, with the opportunity to participate in fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting. You will have a BSc in a relevant subject and a strong foundation in macroinvertebrate identification to at least family level. We are looking for someone with a genuine passion for freshwater invertebrates and the ambition to develop taxonomic expertise, potentially specialising in specific groups. Previous experience in field sample collection is advantageous, but not essential, as training and development opportunities are available.

Success in this role means delivering timely and accurate sample analysis, maintaining high standards under Analytic Quality Control (AQC) procedures, contributing to technical reporting where appropriate, and supporting the team’s commitment to health, safety, quality, and environmental standards. You will also have the chance to get involved in field surveys and help foster the specialist taxonomic skills that are becoming increasingly rare.

Ideal candidates will have previous experience identifying macroinvertebrates from different habitats across the UK, a good understanding of aquatic ecology, and the ability to meet tight deadlines. It would be an advantage to bring additional expertise in specialist groups such as damselflies, dragonflies and INNS species, as well as familiarity with AQC systems and Water Framework Directive methodologies.

You will be offered the chance to work on a variety of projects, many of our employees have worked on projects that have been of personal interest to them. We match this with a commitment to continuous development and learning to support your career. We also offer benefits to look after you, from private medical insurance for all employees, access to mental health first aiders and comprehensive income protection if you cannot work. We also offer superb flexible working options, balancing work with your life.

Next steps

We are focused on creating a diverse and inclusive team. If you can’t tick every box on our job description, then we are still keen to hear from you and are open to supporting your development. That may be working part time or supporting you to gain experience in a specific area – we are a growing company and are able to adapt roles to reflect individual skills.

If you think you have what it takes to join our fast-growing business, then please apply immediately on our website. All we need some basic information and your CV, we will review all applications quickly and will respond to all applications.