Biological Safety Officer

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) purpose is to have a global impact by fundamentally reimagining the way science and technology translate into end-to-end solutions and delivering these solutions in programmes and platforms that respond to humanity’s most challenging problems.

EIT will ensure scientific discoveries and pioneering science are turned into products for the benefit of society that can have high-impact worldwide and, over time, be commercialised to ensure long-term sustainability.

Led by a world-class faculty of scientists, technologists, policy makers, economists and entrepreneurs, the Ellison Institute of Technology aims to develop and deploy commercially sustainable solutions to solve some of humanity’s most enduring challenges. Our work is guided by four Humane Endeavours: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology, Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change & Managing Atmospheric CO2 and Artificial Intelligence & Robotics.

Set for completion in 2027, the EIT Campus in Littlemore will include more than 300,000 sq ft of research laboratories, educational and gathering spaces. Fuelled by growing ambition and the strength of Oxford’s science ecosystem, EIT is now expanding its footprint to a 2 million sq ft Campus across the western part of The Oxford Science Park. Designed by Foster + Partners led by Lord Norman Foster, this will become a transformative workplace for up to 7,000 people, with autonomous laboratories, purpose-built laboratories including a plant sciences building and dynamic spaces to spark interdisciplinary collaboration.

EIT is committed to cultivating a community where excellence is achieved through collaboration, trust, innovation and tenacity. We foster an environment where everyone’s experience and expertise are valued. We are curious and resilient in our efforts to drive long-term, sustainable innovation to meet humanity’s most enduring challenges.

EIT is seeking a qualified and experienced Biological Safety Officer (BSO) to lead and manage the biosafety programs within EIT. The BSO will play a critical role in ensuring safe, ethical, and compliant handling of all biological agents and materials in accordance with national and international regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and maintain the organisation’s biosafety policies and procedures across all departments.
• Oversee biosafety compliance in research and operational activities involving:
• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
• Human biological materials (tissues, cells, blood, etc.)
• Plant pathogens and transgenic plants
• Serve as the primary contact and advisor on biosafety matters for all staff and researchers.
• Conduct biosafety risk assessments and approve protocols.
• Develop and deliver training programs for employees on biosafety, waste management, PPE, and emergency procedures
• Investigate and report incidents, exposures, or near misses involving biological agents
• Maintain accurate documentation and records of biosafety practices, audits, and training.
• Oversee biological waste disposal, decontamination procedures, and laboratory inspections

Essential Skills, Qualifications & Experience:

• Strong experience in Microbiology, Biology, Plants, Environmental Health, Public Health, or related field.
• Experience within a scientific or laboratory environment.
• 5+ years of experience in biosafety, preferably in a research or biotechnology environment involving multi-species or interdisciplinary biological work.
• Certification as Biological Safety Professional
• In-depth knowledge of biosafety regulations and standards.
• Strong understanding of Containment level 1-3, autoclaving, disinfection, and biosecurity principles.
• Excellent communication, training, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Ability to multitask, manage complex tasks, and keep detailed records and reports across different sites.
• Flexibility to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and manage a variety of tasks across sites.
• Collaborative and works well with cross-functional teams, including site managers, senior leadership, and external contractors.

We offer the following salary and benefits:

Salary: £45,000 - £60,000 per annum (depending on experience) + travel allowance + bonus

Enhanced holiday pay

Pension

Life Assurance

Income Protection

Private Medical Insurance

Hospital Cash Plan

Therapy Services

Perk Box

Electric Car Scheme

Why work for EIT:

At the Ellison Institute, we believe a collaborative, inclusive team is key to our success. We are building a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Valuing emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, we encourage people to be curious and to have a shared commitment to excellence. Join us and make an impact!

Terms of Appointment:

• You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary.
• You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford.
• During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.
• This position is full time, permanent and fully onsite at our Oxford office.