Institute Biological Safety Officer– 25P-003 The Pirbright institute
Permanent
We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.
Our institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; Health Safety & Biosafety (HSBS) plays a pivotal role at Pirbright, providing outstanding levels of service and support, and exacting professional standards of work, in support of the research, diagnostic services and operations of the Institute.
The role of Biological Safety Officer (BSO) is critical to provide Pirbright with the expert professional support necessary to comply with biosafety and biosecurity requirements under health & safety law and related legislation, to maintain legal authority to operate as a Major Accident Hazard Site under its Specified Animal Pathogens Order (SAPO) licence, and to facilitate control and mitigation of the high consequence Biorisk arising from its work.
High consequence viral animal pathogens under Pirbright’s licence under the Specified Animal Pathogens Order 2008 (SAPO).
Human health risks from viral zoonotic agents under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, as applicable to biological agents.
Human and environmental risks from genetically modified organisms under the Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 2014.
To act as primary point of contact for HSE and other relevant regulatory authorities on Biorisk compliance, including for the SAPO licence and the annual HSE Major Hazard Intervention Plan issued under that licence, and to host all HSE visits and interactions in relation to SAPO, the Intervention Plan and containment and control of Biorisk.
Lead development and implementation of Biorisk management by Pirbright, including:
such as Safety Performance Indicators.
Frameworks to foster and ensure user competence, including training provision.
Act as the key source of biosafety assistance and incident management for the Institute, both in working hours and out-of-hours, subject to an agreed allowance for the latter.
Provide timely and reliable expert advice and guidance on Biorisk to all stakeholders, including assistance with preparation of risk assessments.
Identify Institute Biorisk training needs and develop and deliver training for those needs.
Contribute and support, as needed, on Biorisk aspects of site development, such as commissioning of the new Brooksby high containment large animal facility and the under construction Centre of Veterinary Vaccine Innovation & Manufacturing.
Assist Pirbright Training with development and delivery of training for the bioeconomy sector in support of BPRS.
Contribute to external collaborations and projects on Biorisk, including (but not limited to) representing the UK on the Special Committee on Biorisk Management of the European Commission for the Control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease, and representing Pirbright on the UK CL4 User Group and the UK Biorisk Strategic Leadership Group.
Undertake all continuing professional and personal development necessary for the above.
Monitor and facilitate implementation of corrective and improvement actions arising from inspection, audit and investigation findings.
Significant experience of working as a biological safety officer or similar role, including oversight of CL3 or CL4 facilities, or of working as a Biorisk regulatory inspector.
Significant experience of liaison with regulatory authorities.
Able to set priorities, deliver high quality work, under pressure,
Demonstrable leadership qualities, and a respected and credible Biorisk expert
(PhD in a bioscience subject or similar.
NEBOSH General Certificate in Health & Safety, or equivalent qualifications or training.
Experience of workplace inspections and of auditing.
Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
~25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.Buy and sell annual leave
~ Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
~ Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
~ Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
~ Cycle to work
~ Childcare allowance
~ Free onsite parking
~ Electric Car charging facilities