Biosafety Specialist
Job Summary
The Biosafety Specialist, is an integral member of the University of Utah Biosafety Team, supporting the safe conduct of cutting-edge research involving biological agents and helping protect the University community. This role involves collaboration with researchers, faculty, and institutional partners to implement and oversee biosafety programs. The position offers a diverse mix of responsibilities, including supporting Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) operations, conducting laboratory inspections, developing training and educational materials, and contributing to policies and resources in an evolving regulatory landscape. This role provides opportunities to build expertise in biosafety, regulatory compliance, and research oversight within a dynamic academic environment.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities
- Inspect research laboratories for compliance with regulations and guidelines related to the use, handling, and disposal of biohazardous agents. Track deficiencies and provide guidance on corrective actions.
- Contribute to the administration of the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), including compiling and reviewing registration materials, communicating with Principal Investigators and committee members, and generating documentation (e.g., memos, approval letters, expiration notices).
- Support the transition to a new biosafety office registration software system and contribute to improving the efficiency of IBC registration processes.
- Contribute to the development of virtual training modules related to OSHA-required blood-borne pathogen exposure control, BSL-2, BSL-3, ABSL-2, and ABSL-3 programs, and IBC registration processes for faculty, staff, and others working with or potentially exposed to biological agents.
- Participate in the development and ongoing revision of institutional biosafety guidance documents to align with evolving federal, local, and institutional regulations and policies.
- Assist research laboratories with risk assessments involving biological agents and provide guidance on biosafety practices and regulatory compliance.
- Contribute to biosafety outreach efforts, including in-person engagement, development of educational/marketing materials, and maintenance of web-based resources.
- Monitor and triage the Biosafety office email inbox, providing accurate information and ensuring efficient routing of inquiries to subject-matter experts.
- Support coordination with related compliance areas, including human participant research and animal research programs.
- Assist in responses to incidents involving biohazardous materials, including spills and other emergencies.
- Cross-train in additional Biosafety Office functions to support operational resilience.
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of the department's mission.
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