Research Scientist Jobs at Cats Protection UK
Join Cats Protection as a Research Scientist – Epidemiology and contribute to groundbreaking feline welfare research. This remote-friendly Research Scientist job opportunity for life science graduates allows you to lead epidemiological studies, collaborate with academic partners, and help improve the health and well-being of domestic cats across the UK. Explore this flexible Remote job with a competitive salary and benefits.
About Cats Protection
Cats Protection is the UK’s largest cat welfare charity, supporting millions of cats and their caregivers nationwide. Their Feline Welfare Research Team applies scientific rigour to population-level studies, guiding policies and interventions that have a long-term impact on domestic cat welfare. Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Cats Protection provides an inclusive environment for Remote jobs in research and welfare.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Research Scientist – Epidemiology
- Team: Research
- Location: Remote (with occasional travel and overnight stays)
- Work Pattern: 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day, flexible working options
- Salary: Up to £49,655.50 per year
- Contract: 12-month fixed term
Research Scientist Job Overview
The Research Scientist – Epidemiology will:
- Lead and support epidemiological research on domestic cat population projects, both internally at Cats Protection and in collaboration with academics and other organisations.
- Expand knowledge and data on the health, disease dynamics, risk factors, and welfare issues in various cat populations.
About the Research Team
The Feline Welfare Research Team is a small but growing team of six scientists within the Cat Welfare Department. The team provides scientific expertise, undertakes ethically sound cat welfare research, and ensures resources are allocated to projects with the greatest long-term impact. Disciplines include epidemiology, demography, and welfare assessment.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct and oversee epidemiological research in domestic cat populations.
- Collaborate with internal and external partners (academics, NGOs, other organisations).
- Collect, analyse, and interpret data to inform cat welfare strategies.
- Contribute to reports, publications, and scientific communication within the charity.
Requirements
- PhD completed (viva passed, corrections approved) in biological science, biostatistics, or related field.
- Experience in epidemiological, clinical, veterinary, or animal welfare studies, including first-author publications.
- Strong skills in statistics and data analysis.
- Commitment to animal welfare.
- Excellent interpersonal, collaboration, and communication skills.
Benefits of Research Scientist Jobs
- Health benefits package.
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increases with tenure).
- Access to Salary Finance to manage personal finances.
- Additional benefits available; learn more here.
Application Process
- Closing Date: 2 February 2026
- Virtual Interview Dates: 11 & 12 February 2026
Recruitment Stages:
- Anonymised application form submission
- Virtual interview and presentation
Notes:
- Applications may close early if positions are filled.
- Candidates with transferable skills are encouraged to apply even if not all requirements are met.
- Adjustments can be requested for the recruitment process via [email protected].
