Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking a Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official to oversee biosafety standards and compliance in research. This full-time role involves supervising staff, consulting on biological material regulations, and collaborating with entities like USDA and CDC.

The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in biosafety compliance, effective communication skills, and a relevant degree. This position requires on-call availability and offers a significant impact on research safety and regulatory adherence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience including 3 years of supervisory experience.
• 5-7 years of experience in a Biosafety Compliance program.
• 5-7 years of experience managing large and complex teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision to biosafety staff.
• Lead and manage the Office of Biosafety.
• Consult on importation and transport of regulated biological materials.

Skills

Knowledge of regulatory requirements for biological materials

Demonstrated proficiency in microbiology

Proficiency in molecular biology

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Masters, PhD or DVM in related field of science

Tools

PPE equipment

Job description

Job Title

Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

Posting Number

S15198P

Department

VPR-Biosafety

Position Summary

This position acts as the University Biosafety Officer as part of the research compliance infrastructure of the Office of the Vice President for Research. Overall responsibilities include the development, implementation and management of programs and policies relative to the University’s compliance with biological safety; biohazardous materials security; and federal, state and local regulations governing all research involving biological materials, agents and toxins. This position leads and manages the Office of Biosafety, including the management of the University Institutional Biosafety Committee. This position works closely with the USDA, the CDC, state and local authorities, and with professional organizations to assure that the university meets all regulatory requirements, minimizes environmental risks, and protects human health and the environment. Training is a key component of this position, and the incumbent must be able to work closely with a very diverse community. This position is a full‑time on‑site role and requires on‑call availability after hours for emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Biosafety Oversight
• Provide direct supervision to biosafety staff, including performance management, workload distribution, coaching, and day‑to‑day operational guidance.
• Lead and manage the Office of Biosafety, including staff portfolios, staff professional development, staff schedules, and office and unit priorities. Oversee and serve as the backup for staff to ensure the mission of the office. This may include inspections, training, incident response, and consultations.
• Consult on the importation and interstate transport of regulated biological materials. Ensure the safety of research involving recombinant DNA; transgenic plants and animals; animal, plant and human pathogens; and biological toxins.
• Ensure the operation of the following programs: Institutional Review Entity, Dual Use Research of Concern, Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential, Dangerous Gain of Function, and others as needed.
• Serve as the Responsible Official (RO) for the UGA Select Agent Program. Submit documentation for maintenance of institutional USDA and CDC certifications, and other regulatory certifications.
• Serve as a key member of the Institutional Biosafety Committee. Build and maintain relationships with a variety of stakeholders and provide effective communication and support to the research community. May serve on other compliance committees as needed strategically and represent the Office of Research.
• Provide guidance for design and management of biosafety facilities and ensure suitability for personnel involved in select agent work.
• Review and approve standard operating procedures, safety and training manuals and other related documents produced by the Office of Biosafety.
• Build and sustain inter‑unit relationships with researchers to provide best practices and university approaches to biosafety.
• Support occupational health programs.
• Ensure development and maintenance of an appropriate website.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience to include 3 years of supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in a Biosafety Compliance program.
• 5-7 years of experience managing large and complex team(s).
• 5-7 years of experience in managing research and containment environments (A/BSL3 or higher).
• Masters, PhD or DVM in related field of science.
• Registered Biosafety Professional credentials.
• Previous Responsible Official (RO) experience.
• Higher education or governmental agency experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Competencies

• Knowledge of regulatory requirements for biological materials.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the areas of microbiology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering relative to plants, animals, and/or humans.
• Registration with the Select Agent Program as Responsible Official will require a Department of Justice background check.

Physical Demands

• Sitting for extended periods of time.
• PPE use such as PAPRs, protective clothing, battery packs, respirators, gloves, etc.
• Standing on hard surfaces for prolonged periods of time.
• Lifting items up to 20 pounds.
• After‑hours on‑call responsibilities for emergencies.

Other Information

• Is driving a responsibility of this position? Yes.
• Is this a Position of Trust? Yes.
• Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No.
• Does this position require a P-Card? No.
• Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No.
• Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No.
• Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)? Yes.

Equal Opportunity Employment (EEO) Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact: Lisa Kelly

Email: [e-mail]