ICBF is the leading provider of information-based genetics services with more than 25 years history. At ICBF, innovation and cutting-edge technology are central to supporting the growing agri-tech industry.
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 and permanent changes to desirable traits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower pollution potential and improved animal health and welfare (including the ability to identify those 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
- DAERA is funding the BGP and will be working in partnership with Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) to provide strategic direction for the programme.
- SRG is a not-for-profit Company established by the agri-food industry in Northern Ireland. SRG have been tasked with assisting DAERA in the delivery of 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 ongoing development of resources, knowledge transfer and provision of advice.
- 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
ICBF are seeking to appoint one or more Business Support Specialists 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, wider industry and SRG. 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
If you are interested in the above position, please submit your cover letter and CV via our online application process, which is available on our website www.icbf.com under ‘Careers’.
Closing date for applications is 6th June 2025
ICBF is an equal opportunities employer