University Biological Safety Advisor - UOD2426

We are seeking an experienced University Biological Safety Adviser to join our Health & Safety team.

You will be the University’s professional lead and institutional expert on biological safety, biosecurity and biological risk management, supporting the safe and secure delivery of teaching, research and innovation involving biological agents, genetically modified organisms, high-consequence pathogens and other biological hazards.

The University has a strong reputation for biological sciences teaching and research, and this role provides an opportunity to help us develop and strengthen our approach further.

About the Role

You will act as the University’s competent person for biological safety and biosecurity, leading the development, implementation and continual improvement of our biological safety and biosecurity management systems.

Working closely with local Biological Safety Advisers, Health & Safety Advisers, Faculties and Professional Services, you will contribute to the University’s wider Health & Safety Strategy and priorities.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

• Act as the University’s competent person for biological safety and principal contact with relevant regulators, on all matters relating to biological safety, genetically modified organisms (GM), biosecurity, COSHH and biological risk management.
• Lead the development and review of university-wide biological safety and biosecurity policies and procedures.
• Exercise delegated authority to determine compliance with the University's Biological Safety Policy and ensure appropriate control measures are implemented.
• Lead the development and implementation of the University’s Biosecurity Management Framework.
• Provide specialist advice on biosecurity risk assessment, dual-use research, and the secure management of biological materials.
• Oversee statutory notifications, licensing, document control and regulatory reporting.
• Provide professional oversight of the secure transport, import, export, and receipt of infectious substances and biological materials.
• Provide strategic oversight of inventory, accountability and security arrangements for high-risk biological materials, biological safety and biosecurity governance across the University.

Who We’re Looking For

Essential:

• A degree or equivalent in a relevant life sciences discipline.
• Registered Biosafety Practitioner, Registered Biorisk Adviser or Registered Biorisk Specialist status, or equivalent competence with the ability to achieve registration within an agreed timeframe.
• Significant Biological Safety Adviser experience within a complex research organisation.
• Expert knowledge and experience of GMO contained use, SAPO, COSHH, CL2/CL3 laboratories, biological risk assessment, biosecurity and regulatory compliance.
• Expert knowledge and experience of biological material transport and relevant dangerous goods and biosecurity requirements, including ADR and IATA where applicable.
• Experience developing policy, supporting governance committees, conducting audits and inspections, and delivering specialist training.
• The ability to interpret complex legislation and translate requirements into practical guidance.
• Excellent communication, influencing, report writing, organisational and stakeholder management skills.

• Expert knowledge of:
  • Biological asset protection,
  • Containment principles
  • Biological safety governance within research

Why Join Us?

At the University of Dundee, we are driven by a clear purpose: to transform lives through education, research and innovation.

Our collaborative and inclusive culture brings together talented people to tackle global challenges and deliver meaningful change. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels valued, supported and empowered to succeed.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Requirements

Any offer will be conditional upon the successful candidate having, the right to work in the UK. See UK Government immigration & visa guidance before applying.

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