Careers in the Laboratory Services

What we do

Regulatory Science – Veterinary, Agricultural and Food disciplines.
Test for known diseases, infections and toxins.
Confirm that animals, plants and food meet regulations and safety requirements.
Prepare for and mitigate against new risks and diseases.

Why

Support farmers, exports and the consumer.
Protect the food chain and the environment.
Monitor the status of Ireland as being free of certain diseases.

Where

The laboratory services operate in the Central Laboratory Campus located in Backweston, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, together with a number of regional laboratories in Athlone, Cork, Kilkenny, Limerick and Sligo.

How

Laboratory testing of diagnostic samples.
Nationwide surveys of plants and livestock.
Perform regulatory, National Reference Laboratory and Quality Control roles.
Develop new methods and tests using the most modern technologies.
Research – staff are encouraged to develop and engage in research relevant to the work of the laboratories. We collaborate with academic and industrial partners and state agencies in Ireland and Europe. The Department facilitates and funds staff to undertake part-time postgraduate qualifications.

Who

Roles in the Laboratories include:

Laboratory Analyst
Bacteriology
Virology
Parasitology
Pathology
Dairy Science
Biochemistry
Molecular biology

Chemist
Environmental and analytical chemistry
Food chemistry

Agricultural Inspector
Pesticide registration
Plant Health
Entomology
Toxicology
Chemistry
Seed testing

Veterinary Research Officer
Veterinary Science

Seed Analyst
Seed testing and certification
Microbiology