Biological Safety Officer

Updated: over 2 years ago
Location: Kansas City, KANSAS
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: The position may have been removed or expired!

Department:
Environment Health & Safety (EHS)

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Environment Health and Safety
Position Title:
Biological Safety Officer
Job Family Group:
Professional Staff
Job Description Summary:
The Biological Safety Officer is responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating and maintaining a comprehensive biosafety program for the KUMC.
This position, like all KU Medical Center positions, is an integral part of a diverse community that encourages and provides opportunities for cultural engagement.
This position directly reports to the Director of the Environment, Health & Safety office.
Job Description:

Establishes and implements strategic goals and objectives for the KUMC Biosafety program.  Consults with KUMC Principal Investigators, research staff and others regarding mitigation of biological hazards, methods for maintaining compliance with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules, regulations pertaining to select agents and toxins, Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories guidelines, and biohazard waste disposal. 

Monitors and analyzes federal/state regulations related to research safety.  Develops and updates the KUMC Biosafety Manual, written plans and biosafety-specific Standard Operating Procedures.  Develops biosafety and security plans. Assists in developing Emergency Plans.  Provides biosafety advice and technical guidance to the KUMC biomedical research community.


Prepare Documentation for:
Internal and external inspections (Lab specific, NIH, CDC, USDA)
Department of Transportation 6.2 Dangerous Goods

Develops and delivers biosafety related training as described:

  • New employees
  • Continuing education/ refresher trainings (e.g., Biosafety, Bloodborne Pathogens, Shipping Infectious Substances and Biological Specimens)
  • Conduct educational outreach activities (Departmental meetings, lab meetings; New Faculty/Grad Student Orientation)

Serves as ex officio voting member of the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC).   Assist in the development of strategic goals and objectives for the IBC.   Develop and provide ongoing education for committee members.  Assure compliance with university policies and the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules.   Perform preliminary review of all IBC protocols and addenda involving the use of recombinant DNA and other biohazardous materials. Work with the IBC Administrator to develop agenda and minutes for IBC meetings, coordinate with Principal Investigators on protocol issues identified during IBC meetings, and send approval letters to Principal Investigators.

Serves as an ex officio voting member of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), providing special review of IACUC protocols involving in vivo use of recombinant DNA and other biohazardous materials, referring to other EHS members as appropriate.  Perform risk assessment of biohazard use in animals to ensure proper work practices are utilized for the protection of researchers and animal husbandry staff. Review hazard communication signage for animal facility rooms to ensure adequate hazard information and controls have been addressed and appropriate animal housing/containment level is used. Provides support to LAR husbandry staff and research staff when hazards are identified within animal protocols.  Provides training, as needed, to animal workers.

Conducts biosafety inspections of research laboratories (BSL-1 to BSL-3) and other areas throughout KUMC where biohazardous materials are handled. Notify Principal Investigators of inspection findings and provide corrective actions based on regulatory compliance and biosafety best practices.

Reviews inbound and outbound Material Transfer Agreements (MTA) and grant proposals/awards for the use of biohazardous materials.

Serves as a key member of the University’s Environment, Health & Safety office.  This includes collaborating with other EHS employees to develop and implement EHS programs to resolve compliance issues and regularly update the EHS Director regarding status of programs and any identified deficiencies.

Responds to emergency spills regarding biohazards. Must be available to participate in rotation of 24 hr. EHS “on call” responsibilities.
Reviews plans for construction or renovation of laboratories utilizing biological materials. Tracks and coordinates annual inspections of primary containment equipment (e.g. biosafety cabinets) across campus.  Maintains required documentation.

Oversees the training and authorization of personnel working in BSL-3 labs.  Serve as acting facility manager for BSL-3 labs, develop and maintain BSL-3 policies and procedures, and coordinate annual lab shut-downs for necessary equipment certifications and maintenance work.

Reviews safety protocols for human gene transfer research occurring in university and hospital clinical research locations.  Conducts site inspections in areas where investigational products will be used, stored, administered, and disposed to ensure that proper biosafety work practices and other risk mitigation measures are in place.


Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related discipline, with relevant experience in biological and laboratory safety. 
  • In-depth knowledge of practices and procedures performed in BSL-1, BSL-2, and BSL-3 labs.
  • Knowledge of applicable regulations or guidelines (e.g., NIH Guidelines, BMBL 6th Edition, OSHA BBP Standard, etc.) pertaining to microbial agents, recombinant DNA technology and other biohazardous materials associated with biomedical research. 
  • Must be able to wear a respirator (e.g., N-95 and/or a PAPR).
  • Knowledge of research laboratory processes, facilities and the operations of laboratory equipment.
  • Must be comfortable working in a laboratory environment and discussing experimental protocols and other technical safety/compliance issues with research staff.
  • Must be able to successfully pass the Department of Justice security clearance and the University’s internal Suitability Assessment Program as required for registered Select Agent and Toxin facilities.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Excel.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines, and work independently or as part of a team.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree or higher in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related discipline.
  • Certification or eligibility for certification as a Registered Biosafety Professional (RBP) or Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP)
  • Experience working with BSL-3 labs.
  • Experience working in a university research environment, EHS department or other complex organization.
  • Strong presentation and training skills.
  • First aid and AED certifications
  • Incident Command Training
  • HAZWOPER training
  • Experience in shipping regulations pertaining to Class 6, Division 6.2 infectious substances, dry ice, and other biological specimens

Employee Type:
Regular
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Pay Grade:
A12
Pay Range:

Minimum

57572

Midpoint

73650

Maximum

89210

Department:
Environment Health & Safety (EHS)

-----

Environment Health and Safety
Position Title:
Biological Safety Officer
Job Family Group:
Professional Staff
Job Description Summary:
The Biological Safety Officer is responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating and maintaining a comprehensive biosafety program for the KUMC.
This position, like all KU Medical Center positions, is an integral part of a diverse community that encourages and provides opportunities for cultural engagement.
This position directly reports to the Director of the Environment, Health & Safety office.
Job Description:

Establishes and implements strategic goals and objectives for the KUMC Biosafety program.  Consults with KUMC Principal Investigators, research staff and others regarding mitigation of biological hazards, methods for maintaining compliance with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules, regulations pertaining to select agents and toxins, Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories guidelines, and biohazard waste disposal. 

Monitors and analyzes federal/state regulations related to research safety.  Develops and updates the KUMC Biosafety Manual, written plans and biosafety-specific Standard Operating Procedures.  Develops biosafety and security plans. Assists in developing Emergency Plans.  Provides biosafety advice and technical guidance to the KUMC biomedical research community.


Prepare Documentation for:
Internal and external inspections (Lab specific, NIH, CDC, USDA)
Department of Transportation 6.2 Dangerous Goods

Develops and delivers biosafety related training as described:

  • New employees
  • Continuing education/ refresher trainings (e.g., Biosafety, Bloodborne Pathogens, Shipping Infectious Substances and Biological Specimens)
  • Conduct educational outreach activities (Departmental meetings, lab meetings; New Faculty/Grad Student Orientation)

Serves as ex officio voting member of the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC).   Assist in the development of strategic goals and objectives for the IBC.   Develop and provide ongoing education for committee members.  Assure compliance with university policies and the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules.   Perform preliminary review of all IBC protocols and addenda involving the use of recombinant DNA and other biohazardous materials. Work with the IBC Administrator to develop agenda and minutes for IBC meetings, coordinate with Principal Investigators on protocol issues identified during IBC meetings, and send approval letters to Principal Investigators.

Serves as an ex officio voting member of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), providing special review of IACUC protocols involving in vivo use of recombinant DNA and other biohazardous materials, referring to other EHS members as appropriate.  Perform risk assessment of biohazard use in animals to ensure proper work practices are utilized for the protection of researchers and animal husbandry staff. Review hazard communication signage for animal facility rooms to ensure adequate hazard information and controls have been addressed and appropriate animal housing/containment level is used. Provides support to LAR husbandry staff and research staff when hazards are identified within animal protocols.  Provides training, as needed, to animal workers.

Conducts biosafety inspections of research laboratories (BSL-1 to BSL-3) and other areas throughout KUMC where biohazardous materials are handled. Notify Principal Investigators of inspection findings and provide corrective actions based on regulatory compliance and biosafety best practices.

Reviews inbound and outbound Material Transfer Agreements (MTA) and grant proposals/awards for the use of biohazardous materials.

Serves as a key member of the University’s Environment, Health & Safety office.  This includes collaborating with other EHS employees to develop and implement EHS programs to resolve compliance issues and regularly update the EHS Director regarding status of programs and any identified deficiencies.

Responds to emergency spills regarding biohazards. Must be available to participate in rotation of 24 hr. EHS “on call” responsibilities.
Reviews plans for construction or renovation of laboratories utilizing biological materials. Tracks and coordinates annual inspections of primary containment equipment (e.g. biosafety cabinets) across campus.  Maintains required documentation.

Oversees the training and authorization of personnel working in BSL-3 labs.  Serve as acting facility manager for BSL-3 labs, develop and maintain BSL-3 policies and procedures, and coordinate annual lab shut-downs for necessary equipment certifications and maintenance work.

Reviews safety protocols for human gene transfer research occurring in university and hospital clinical research locations.  Conducts site inspections in areas where investigational products will be used, stored, administered, and disposed to ensure that proper biosafety work practices and other risk mitigation measures are in place.


Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related discipline, with relevant experience in biological and laboratory safety. 
  • In-depth knowledge of practices and procedures performed in BSL-1, BSL-2, and BSL-3 labs.
  • Knowledge of applicable regulations or guidelines (e.g., NIH Guidelines, BMBL 6th Edition, OSHA BBP Standard, etc.) pertaining to microbial agents, recombinant DNA technology and other biohazardous materials associated with biomedical research. 
  • Must be able to wear a respirator (e.g., N-95 and/or a PAPR).
  • Knowledge of research laboratory processes, facilities and the operations of laboratory equipment.
  • Must be comfortable working in a laboratory environment and discussing experimental protocols and other technical safety/compliance issues with research staff.
  • Must be able to successfully pass the Department of Justice security clearance and the University’s internal Suitability Assessment Program as required for registered Select Agent and Toxin facilities.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Excel.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines, and work independently or as part of a team.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree or higher in Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or related discipline.
  • Certification or eligibility for certification as a Registered Biosafety Professional (RBP) or Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP)
  • Experience working with BSL-3 labs.
  • Experience working in a university research environment, EHS department or other complex organization.
  • Strong presentation and training skills.
  • First aid and AED certifications
  • Incident Command Training
  • HAZWOPER training
  • Experience in shipping regulations pertaining to Class 6, Division 6.2 infectious substances, dry ice, and other biological specimens

Employee Type:
Regular
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Rate Type:
Salary
Pay Grade:
A12
Pay Range:

Minimum

57572

Midpoint

73650

Maximum

89210

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