The Programme
The Northern Ireland Bovine Genetics Project (BGP) is one of several new schemes and measures launched under the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Sustainable Agriculture Programme. The BGP will drive genetic improvement in cattle, delivering long-term, permanent changes in desirable traits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower pollution potential, and improved animal health and welfare (including the ability to identify breeding animals most resistant to Bovine Tuberculosis). The BGP will provide cattle breeders with the data and evidence necessary to breed more efficient, healthier and more productive animals.
The Partners
- SRG is a not-for-profit Company established by the agri-food industry in Northern Ireland. SRG have been tasked with assisting DAERA in delivering several key functions, including the supply of industry data and the promotion and marketing of the project to producers and other stakeholders, to maximise uptake and benefits for participating herds through the ongoing development of resources, knowledge transfer, and the provision of advice.
- DAERA is funding the BGP and will be working in partnership with Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) to provide strategic direction for the programme.
- The Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) was established in 1998 as a non-profit organisation charged with providing cattle breeding information services to the dairy and beef industries. In January 2025, DAERA awarded a contract to ICBF to act as the service provider for the Northern Ireland BGP. As such, ICBF will collate data, produce reports, build and manage a database of genetic and genomic information and run genomic evaluations.
The Position
SRG are seeking to appoint a Business Support Specialist to support the rollout and ongoing delivery of the BGP. Reporting to the Project Managers, you will learn and develop a broad skillset in an open, supportive and collaborative environment, including:
- Breeding indexes
- Benchmarking reports
- Genotyping services
- Industry data integration
- Knowledge transfer
- Industry and farmer training and support
The role will include both desk-based and field activities. You will be working directly with farmers and wider industry. The role may require occasional evening or weekend work.
Our Candidate Requirements
- Hold a 3rd-level degree in Agricultural Science or equivalent
- Be self-motivated, well-organised and a team player
- Have excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and an excellent telephone manner
- Have good computer skills
- Have a keen interest in cattle breeding
- Full driving licence, valid in Northern Ireland
The Location
The SRG office is located in Cookstown Enterprise Centre, Derryloran Industrial Estate, Sandholes Rd, Cookstown BT80 9LU.
If you are interested in the above position, please submit your cover letter and CV via our online application process available here.
Closing date for applications is 25th May 2026. ICBF is an equal opportunity employer