Chief Inspector, Animals in Science Regulation Unit

Home Office
London
£74,000 - £84,000

Ref: 1611981

The Animals in Science Regulation Unit (ASRU) is a part of the Home Office Security, Science & Innovation Directorate within Capabilities and Resources. We regulate the use of animals in scientific research for the benefit of people, animals and the environment, through the provision of impartial licensing procedures and evidence-based advice, and by encouraging the development and use of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) nationally.

Scientific research using animals plays a vital part in our understanding of how biological systems work both in health and disease. It supports the development of new medicines and cutting-edge medical technologies, both for humans and animals. It also underpins the safe marketing and use of chemicals, development of improved veterinary and agricultural practices, as well as underpinning policy decisions on the safety and sustainability of our environment. By law, the use of animals in all these ways must be licenced.  This research contributes to the UK’s world-class research base in medical, environmental, agricultural and other life sciences, which has significant economic value to the UK.

The Home Office regulates the use of animals in scientific procedures in England, Scotland and Wales. This is carried out by the Animals in Science Regulation Unit (ASRU) under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA).

The Inspector’s role is central to the maintenance of public confidence that animal welfare is properly safeguarded in the interests of quality biomedical scientific research, as judged by both stakeholders working under the terms of the Act and the wider community. Inspectors have a key role in the implementation of the controls on regulated procedures applied to animals covered by the Act.  Inspectors assess and advise on programmes of scientific work submitted for licensing under the Act, including the suitability of the applicant to hold such authorities, and perform a Harm Benefit Analysis on project licence proposals. 

Reporting to the Head of ASRU, the role of the Chief Inspector (CI) is to lead the Inspectorate within ASRU, upholding professional and scientific credibility, championing scientific innovation and progress whilst maintaining public and ministerial confidence in the use of live animals in experiments under the terms of ASPA.

The CI is responsible for setting inspectorate strategy contributing to ASRU’s development as a modern, consistent regulator. The CI should have a high level of professional competency, either as a doctor or as a veterinary surgeon, based on formal qualifications and experience, which commands trust and respect both internally and externally. They should have a sound experience in a regulatory field and in scientific practice.

The CI coordinates activity relevant to the HO Heads of Profession for veterinary surgeons or medical doctors, acts as final arbiter and is accountable for inspectorate advice.

The CI will report to the Head of the Animals in Science Regulation Unit.

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Closing date: Friday 28 December 2018.

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