Deadline for submission of applications: 2nd October 2026
Welsh Government Biodiversity Team are seeking a PhD student placement to undertake a scoping study on the feasibility, delivery, cost, and effectiveness of a squirrelpox vaccine for protecting wild red squirrel populations in Wales.
📅 Start: Autumn 2026 | 3 months (with possible 3 month extension)
📍 Hybrid – Home / Office. The successful candidate must be able to travel to Welsh Government offices.
👤 UK-based PhD students (supervisors approval required)
📩 Apply by: Friday 2nd October 2026
The post holder will undertake a literature review and market research on an animal vaccine manufacturing and marketing authorisation process, estimated costs and timeline of research from the initial stages to placing the vaccine on the market, and estimated cost and resource needed for the ongoing deployment of an animal vaccine to wildlife, in relation to squirrelpox in wild red squirrels. This will also include requirements for all the necessary licensing to carry out experiments on live animals. The review and recommendations should be supported by available peer-reviewed scientific literature and other reliable scientific sources, where possible.
The placement provides an opportunity to gain insight into the functioning of Welsh Government and evidence-based policy development at the highest level. The post-holder will work in an interesting and diverse team, contributing to the shaping of a future policy direction. The post-holder will be expected to work independently within parameters and guidelines provided by the Welsh Government. Working closely with a wide range of colleagues the successful candidate will build valuable working relationships, broaden their knowledge of public policymaking and enhance their existing transferable skills.
This role will be full-time with a mix of home and office working. The successful candidate must be able to travel to Welsh Government offices.
The placement will be for a 3-month period and will focus on delivering the key tasks set out in the job specification. The option to extend for a further 3 months is possible if the project team feel there is merit in doing so and if it is compatible with the post-holder’s university research schedule and DLP/DFP arrangements.
The Welsh Government is a bilingual organisation and Welsh language skills are considered an asset to the organisation. We encourage and support staff to use their Welsh language skills during a placement.
For further information about the post and details about how to apply download this document: