Staffline Recruitment Ireland
Animal Breeding & Genetics Scientist

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
ANIMAL BREEDING & GENETICS SCIENTIST
Location: Sustainable Livestock Systems Branch, Hillsborough
Hours: 37hrs per week over 5 days may include weekends
Duration: up to 3 months
Pay: £19.59 per hour
About AFBI & the Agri-Environment Branch:
The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) delivers world-class science to support agriculture, the environment, and the wider economy. Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), AFBI provides evidence-based research and monitoring that informs government policy and promotes sustainability in Northern Ireland and beyond.
Main Duties Include:
- Researching genetic traits and mechanisms
- Developing precision breeding solutions
- Data science and modelling
- Collaboration and knowledge transfer
- Ethical and sustainability focus
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Essential Criteria:
- MSc or PhD in Animal Breeding, Genetics, Biology, Agriculture, or a related field
- Strong knowledge of quantitative genetics, breeding programmes, and genomic selection
- Proven ability to analyse complex biological and genomic datasets
- Proficiency in statistical analysis, with strong experience using R (knowledge of Python or similar tools is an advantage)
- Experience applying animal breeding principles within commercial farm systems
- Demonstrated experience in knowledge transfer and effective engagement with farmers and industry stakeholders
- Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-specialist audiences
- Strong organisational and project management skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deliver high quality work under tight deadlines
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
- Strong written and verbal communication skills


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Apply Now!
Take the next step in your career and join a rewarding role with AFBI. Apply today or contact Evette Fiddes at Evette.Fiddes@stafflinerecruit.com
Desired Skills and Experience
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills