The UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is running a campaign to recruit three new members to the Food Authenticity Methodology Working Group (AMWG).
Applications are welcomed from any candidate who has the knowledge, skills and experience required for the role and who meets the essential criteria. More information about the role can be found in the Candidate Pack. The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Friday 15th November 2024.
Information about the vacancies is given below:
The AMWG is a non-statutory expert committee of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The Committee provides expert advice on research carried out under Defra’s Food Authenticity Programme and is accountable to the Agri-Food Science Team within Defra’s Agri-Food Chain Directorate.
The Chairs of expert committees meet annually with Defra’s Chief Scientific Advisor; and provide an annual summary of the work of the Committee to the Science Advisory Council (SAC) for Defra's Annual Report.
Defra wants to attract high-calibre and forward-thinking applicants from diverse backgrounds to its expert committees. Applicants will need to demonstrate they are able to carry out a full range of non-executive responsibilities and have relevant skills, knowledge and expertise. Defra is seeking to appoint up to three new members to AMWG to cover the broad range of expertise required.
Applications will be assessed against the following general essential criteria:
- Experience in dealing with complex technical authenticity challenges, recognised expertise in food analysis and an understanding of fitness for purpose requirements and validation concepts for authenticity methods.
- Demonstrable collaborative working and a willingness to enhance the UKs standing in the field of authenticity testing as well as the ability to understand and value different perspectives and to build productive relationships both within and outside the Committee.
- Ability to think analytically and creatively and to contribute effectively to the formulation of sound scientific-based advice and decisions.
- Ability to express views cogently and clearly, to represent views to the Committee and the Committee’s views to Government and other stakeholders.
In addition to the above general food authenticity expertise and skills, we are seeking new members who have a good understanding or experience of at least one of the following:
- Physical and chemical methods in particular spectroscopic and screening methods
- Food Industry experience, supply chain assurance and traceability
- AI/digital technology
- Molecular Biology and Genetic technologies
- A qualified Public Analyst with experience of Food analysis in a legal setting.
If you have any queries by email AMWGSecretariat@defra.gov.uk.