Senior Biosafety Officer

17-Jan-2024

Campus Services

64793BR

Job Summary

This is a 2-year term position with the possibility of extension.

The Senior Biosafety Officer is responsible for supporting the implementation of the Harvard University Biosafety Program by providing hands on support as well as strong leadership in the Biosafety group.  This part-time (36-hour per week), remote position is under the supervision of the Biosafety Program Manager. The individual will perform duties in Biosafety in a multi-disciplinary Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) environment with strong emphasis on research laboratory safety (biological and chemical safety, occupational safety & health, industrial hygiene and radiation protection).  The primary purpose of this position is to provide services directly to the clients through consultations, technical assistance, training, data collection, and analysis.  This position will support specialized laboratory facilities and programs including biological shipping, high containment labs, insectaries, and greenhouses. As a member of the EH&S team, this person works with other biosafety and laboratory safety staff to develop university-wide safety programs. 

Position Description

• Work with laboratories to integrate safety into laboratory operations and promote safe work practices based on regulatory requirements, best management practice guidance, and University Policy. 
• Perform risk assessments of recombinant and synthetic nucleic acids, review biological agent protocols, process applications for registration with the Harvard Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), and act as a voting Biosafety Officer for the committee.
• Conduct laboratory compliance reviews of laboratories (BSL1 to BSL3, in vitro and in vivo work with recombinant and synthetic nucleic acids), research animal facilities, insectaries, greenhouses, and other support facilities that use recombinant DNA technology and biological agents.  Consult with Principal Investigators and laboratory personnel on inspection findings and provide appropriate recommendations based on regulatory compliance and best practice guidance.
• Review human subjects research and animal experimentation protocols as required. 
• Assist laboratory clients with identification of appropriate biological laboratory containment levels and strategies for hazard assessment and control.
• Maintain up to date records of internal and external correspondence and investigations.  Monitor completion of required tasks such as lab permit/registration renewals, regulatory filings, and take action (with School, EH&S and labs) to complete in a timely manner.
• Prepare and conduct training including biological safety, OSHA bloodborne pathogens, general, and physical protection in laboratories, hazardous materials shipping, and other customized trainings as needed.
• Prepare, update, and draft policies, guidelines, and procedures for biological hazards and processes.
• Assist in the response and investigation of laboratory-related accidents or exposures.
• Implement multi-disciplinary EH&S programs. Develop written plans, training modules, fact sheets and other communications. 
• Responsible for oversight of certain aspects of the Biosafety program as assigned by manager. 
• Maintain a leadership role in the Biosafety group acting as a coach, mentor, and resource for junior staff.
• Take a lead role in enhancing current program by proactively identifying and assessing areas for improvement and developing a project plan to address needs.
• Interpret and maintain proficiency in regulations, standards, guidelines and trends in biological safety and environmental health and safety; anticipate and evaluate their impact on clients; communicate requirements to EH&S and client management.
• Work collaboratively with Biosafety professionals within EH&S, from Harvard-affiliated institutions registered through the IBC, and the IBC administrative office.
• Maintain strong collaborative and professional relationships with EH&S staff, Principal Investigators, researchers, and clients while actively promoting a culture of safety. 
• Commit to valuing diversity and contribute to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or related field or an equivalency of professional training, certifications, and work experience. Minimum of 7 years related work experience or an equivalency of professional training, certifications, and related work experience. Working knowledge of academic research laboratories or research experience. Ability to communicate complex technical issues to diverse clients. Collaborative customer service attitude and skills. Must take initiative and be organized. Eligible for professional certification. Able to manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines. Demonstrate attention to detail.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Professional certification (e.g., Registered Biosafety Professional or similar) desired. Advanced degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology or related field preferred. Project management and mentorship experience desired. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Regulatory expertise in various areas of biological safety.

Working Conditions

Working Format Details                                                                    

This position is a part-time, remote position. This position is approved for a 2-year term (with possibility of renewal/extension), which begins on the person's first day of employment. 

Travel to campus is expected 1 to 2 times per calendar year. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 

All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). 

Pre-Employment Screening : Identify, Social Security Verification, Education, Drug Testing, Criminal Background, SORI. Harvard University EHS cannot provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Schedule

Hours to be scheduled between Monday-Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM (EST)

Additional Information

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Work Format Details

This position is eligible for 100% remote work. Employees may work from any of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

396058 Environmental Health & Safety

Sub-Unit

Environmental Health & Safety

Union

00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

Appointment End Date

02-Jan-2026

Pre-Employment Screening

CORI, Criminal, Drug Testing, Education, Employment, Identity

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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