Assistant University Safety Officer - Hazardous Agents

Location: People - Safety Office, 10 Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PD

Are you an experienced safety officer with expertise in biological safety and hazardous agents, looking to make a meaningful impact? Join the Safety Office at the University of Oxford and help support world-leading research through specialist health and safety advice across a globally renowned institution.

Location: Occupational Health and Safety Office, 10 Parks Road, Oxford

Contract: Full Time (37.5 hours), Permanent

About us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. The Safety Office supports the University's commitment to high standards of health and safety, providing practical advice and guidance that enables world-leading research, teaching and operational activity to be carried out safely.

About the role

This University-wide role provides specialist advice on biological safety and other hazardous agents. Working closely with, and deputising for, the University Biological Safety Officer, you will support biological safety, including genetically modified organisms, while contributing expertise across hazardous chemicals, laboratory animal allergens, and compressed and cryogenic gases.

You will deliver specialist training, investigate incidents, advise departments and professional services, contribute to policies and guidance, and support the University's approach to managing emerging health and safety risks across an evolving research portfolio.

About you

• Significant experience providing health and safety advice within laboratory research environments, including specialist expertise in biological safety.
• Knowledge of other hazardous agent disciplines and experience working within a large, complex organisation.
• Practical laboratory research experience and a relevant degree or professional qualification, including Biosafety Practitioner Level 1 (or equivalent) or NEBOSH Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety (or equivalent).
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with experience delivering training and explaining technical information to a range of audiences.
• Experience developing health and safety policies or guidance and undertaking audits, inspections or incident investigations.
• Strong organisational skills, sound risk-based judgement, and proficiency with Microsoft 365 and specialist information systems.

Sponsorship and right to work

This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa.

Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.

Application process

To apply, please upload:

• The completed Selection Criteria Evidence document
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 7^th August 2026.

Interviews are likely to take place on 18^th August and will be held in person. Details will be confirmed after shortlisting.

Advert information