Biological Safety Officer

University of York; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in York seeks a Biological Safety Officer to manage the safe and compliant handling of biological research. The ideal candidate will provide expert advice on biosafety, support regulatory compliance, and conduct training for staff. Candidates should have a background in biological safety or related disciplines and be willing to pursue health and safety certifications. The role requires effective communication and collaboration with various departments and authorities.

Qualifications

• Experience in a biological safety role or experience as a technician/researcher in a Biosciences lab.
• Good knowledge of UK legislation & guidelines on biosafety & biosecurity.
• Willingness to undertake training and development for health & safety certifications.

Responsibilities

• Act as the principal source of expert advice on biosafety and biosecurity.
• Support the development of biosafety management strategies and conduct inspections.
• Deliver training and advise on laboratory design and safety procedures.

Skills

Biological safety practices

Laboratory safety practices

Excellent communication skills

Collaborative working

Education

Certification in health & safety (e.g. NEBOSH)

Certified ISTR Biosafety Practitioner Level 1

Job description

Biological Safety Officer

The Faculty of Sciences at the University of York is known for its internationally renowned research and strong interdisciplinary culture. Our researchers work with individuals and communities around the world to make a positive difference. We collaborate with businesses, governments and cultural organisations to advance knowledge, track societal shifts and develop transformative technology. We are committed to excellence in teaching and our departments and schools offer courses at all study levels: undergraduate, postgraduate taught and postgraduate research alongside specialist CPD courses.

As Biological Safety Officer (BSO) you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and compliant management of all biological research and activities within the Faculties.

Role

Acting as the principal source of expert advice on biosafety and biosecurity, the BSO supports departments and project supervisors in meeting all relevant regulatory requirements. This includes supporting the development of biosafety management strategies, conducting inspections of containment facilities, and ensuring statutory licences and authorisations are in place.

You will work closely with the Safety, Health and Wellbeing at Work Office (SHWO) through the University’s Biological Safety Adviser (UBSA), maintaining effective communication and collaboration on all matters relating to biological health and safety, liaising with external bodies and enforcement agencies, ensuring the University meets its legal and regulatory obligations while promoting consistent standards of biosafety across all departments.

You will act as secretary to the Biological Agents Safety Committee, providing key administrative and advisory support and direction, reviewing risk assessments, and maintaining a central register of work involving hazardous biological agents and genetically modified organisms. In addition, the role involves delivering training, advising on laboratory design and safety procedures, investigating incidents, and contributing to emergency response planning.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• You will already be working in a biological safety role or be a technician or researcher in a Biosciences lab who wishes to apply their scientific expertise as a foundation for transitioning into a Health and Safety (H&S) role
• Substantial experience of working in a biological or life sciences discipline and a good working knowledge of laboratory safety practices, UK legislation & guidelines on biosafety & biosecurity is essential
• A certification in health & safety (e.g. NEBOSH) or willingness to work towards it
• Certified ISTR Biosafety Practitioner Level 1, or willingness to undertake training and development to attain one and progress to ISTR Biosafety Professional
• Experience in leading on risk assessment, lab inspections / audits and incident investigations within the biosciences sector is desirable
• Excellent communication skills and evidence of working collaboratively across disciplines

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Faculty Technical Manager, Andy Firth on [e-mail] or Head of Faculty Operations, Angela Lipscomb on [e-mail]