Careers in DAFM Laboratories
- Published on: 27 November 2020
- Last updated on: 11 April 2025
What we do
DAFM laboratories performs a wide range of regulatory, diagnostic and research testing across the range of disciplines; Veterinary, Agricultural, Food and Plant Science.
We perform specialist testing in a wide range of areas including:
- virology
- pathology
- bacteriology
- parasitology
- food microbiology
- food chemistry
- pesticides
- plant and science and seed testing
- environmental and analytical chemistry
We also perform:
- nationwide surveys of plants and livestock
- testing of diagnostic samples.
- National Reference Laboratory (NRL) function across a wide range of disciplines
- development and validation of new methods
- research and development relevant to work of DAFM laboratories
- collaboration with academic and state bodies across Europe
- support staff to undertake part-time post graduate studies.
Our purpose
Our mission statement is: Scientific Excellence - Safeguarding and Enhancing Public, Animal and Plant Health and our Environment.
We aim to:
- support farmers, exports and the consumer
- protect the food chain and the environment
- monitor and maintain our disease-free status (which is vital for trade)
Who we employ
DAFM employs a range of scientific grades. All scientific grades have a promotional pathway.
| Entry Level Grade | Minimum Qualification | |
| Laboratory Analyst (Biology) | Level 7 in Bioscience, Molecular Biology or Microbiology | |
| Laboratory Analyst (Chemistry) | Level 7 in Chemistry | |
| Chemist | Level 8 in Chemistry | |
| Assistant Agriculture Inspector | Level 8 in Agricultural Science or Food Science | |
| Veterinary Research Officer | Degree in Veterinary Medicine eligible for VCI registration | |
| Seed Analyst | Leaving Certificate |
In addition, DAFM employ a range of support grades in the laboratories including:
- quality managers
- biosecurity officer
- health and safety officer
- laboratory attendants
- serological assistants
- administrative grades
- I.T. grades
Laboratory locations
DAFM laboratories are based on a large state of the art complex in Backweston, Celbridge, Co. Kildare. In addition, there are smaller regional laboratories in Cork, Limerick, Kilkenny, Athlone and Sligo.