Biological Safety Officer

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The role of the Environment, Health and Safety ( EHS) department is primarily environment, health and safety functions at the University. In support of the University's core mission, EHS will provide comprehensive environmental, health and safety services to the University community. This includes education through training and consultation, maintaining a safe environment through recognizing and controlling health and safety hazards, ensuring a process of regulatory compliance and minimizing future potential liabilities. By developing EHS programs and performing various periodic inspections we can provide a safe work place, ensure a process of compliance and minimize future potential liabilities. EHS is organized into eight (8) sections: Biological Safety, Environmental Affairs, Fire Safety & Emergency Response, Occupational & Environmental Hygiene, Chemical Safety, Radiation Safety, Workplace Safety and Business & Support.

This position will lead the Biological Safety Section of the EHS organization and serve as the University's Biosafety Officer. This position will plan and implement a comprehensive biosafety program to support the University's mission of research and teaching. The position will have responsibility to assess risks pertaining to infectious agents and biological toxins; review of research proposals to protect environment, health and safety; train laboratory personnel in biosafety principles; coordinate activities of the Institutional Biosafety Committee ( IBC); address new concerns relating to UNC research programs in emerging pathogens, select agents and biotechnology, and general surveillance to ensure compliance with applicable State and Federal regulations pertaining to biological hazards.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent) with three years or greater of related professional experience; for candidates demonstrating comparable professional backgrounds, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and five years or greater of relevant experience in substitution.

An applicant should have a strong background in one of a number of related areas, such as microbiology, infectious disease or molecular biology (recombinant DNA). A minimum of at least 5 years of progressively responsible and closely related experience in Biological Safety is required. In addition, this position requires strong oral and written communication skills, and good interpersonal skills.

Upon hire must be able to pass a Security Risk Assessment ( SRA) conducted by the FBI.

Advanced degree in Biology, Microbiology, Virology or related field. A bachelor's degree with 5 year's experience in Biosafety with Biological Safety Professional Certification or ability to obtain is an acceptable substitute for an advanced degree.

The University is an equal opportunity, employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.