RBL Biosafety Officer

The RBL Biosafety Officer serves the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) within the Center for Vaccine Research (CVR) as a technical expert on matters related to biosafety and biosecurity. The position reviews, and, as needed, originates manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and other guidance necessary to ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and institutional regulations. Additionally, the RBL Biosafety Officer advises faculty, staff, and students of best practices in biosafety in a variety of research scenarios. The position reviews and presents documentation to the University Biohazards Committee on behalf of researchers working with risk group 3 pathogens. 

The position requires successful enrollment in the University of Pittsburgh’s Animal Exposure Surveillance Program, Tuberculosis Protection Program, Measles Protection program, and other medical surveillance as dictated by the active research inside the RBL. In addition, the candidate must successfully complete a Department of Justice Security Risk Assessment for work with Select Agents and Toxins, as required by federal regulation; and must maintain good standing in the University of Pittsburgh’s Suitability Assessment program for access to Tier 1 Select Agents. 

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Serves as the primary trainer for faculty, staff, students, and external visitors to the RBL. Evaluates readiness for work in biocontainment with Select Agent pathogens and grants access to regulated space when trainees are deemed proficient in work practices. 
• Develops and implements drills and exercises to test emergency response, security, and biosafety plans serving the RBL. 
• Provides guidance to RBL researchers concerning biosafety, biosecurity, and Select Agent regulatory requirements. 
•  Reviews and revises manuals, SOPs, checklists, presentations, and other material annually, or as required by regulatory changes.
• Ensures RBL user compliance with rules, regulations, policies, and procedures surrounding the Select Agent Program. 
• Inspects the RBL for potential biosafety hazards non-compliance with federal regulations. Takes corrective measures as needed. 
• Investigates incidents and develops applicable plans for improvement. Assists in reporting these incidents, as required, to the appropriate regulatory bodies. 
• Serves as a primary liaison with the NBL/RBL Network and plays a critical role in Federal Select Agent Program inspections. Serves as a member of the Suitability Review Panel for access to Tier 1 Select Agent space. Serves as an Alternate Responsible Official for Select Agents.