Posted: Jun 5, 2026

Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

The University of Georgia - Athens , GA
Full-time
Salary: Other
Application Deadline: N/A
Academia

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience to include 3 years of supervisory experience
Preferred Qualifications
  • 5-7 years of experience in a Biosafety Compliance program
  • 5-7 years of experience managing large and complex team(s)
  • 5-7 years of experience in managing research and containment environments (A/BSL3 or higher)
  • Masters, PhD or DVM in related field of science
  • Registered Biosafety Professional credentials
  • Previous Responsible Official (RO) experience 
  • Higher education or governmental agency experience
Position Summary
This position acts as the University Biosafety Officer as part of the research compliance infrastructure of the Office of the Vice President for Research. Overall responsibilities include the development, implementation and management of programs and policies relative to the University’s compliance with biological safety; biohazardous materials security; and federal, state and local regulations governing all research involving biological materials, agents and toxins.

This position leads and manages the Office of Biosafety, including the management of the University Institutional Biosafety Committee. This position works closely with the USDA, the CDC, state and local authorities, and with professional organizations to assure that the university meets all regulatory requirements, minimizes environmental risks, and protects human health and the environment.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to supporting and consulting with the Institutional Biosafety Committee and the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee; safety oversight of research projects involving recombinant DNA, transgenic plants and animals; animal, plant and human pathogens and biological toxins; biological laboratory safety; oversight of biocontainment design, construction and commissioning; oversight on all aspects of biocontainment facility protocol development; oversight of annual verification of proper containment parameters for biocontainment facilities; consultation on the importation and interstate transport of regulated biological materials, and the shipment of regulated biological materials; blood borne pathogen exposure control program; biological safety cabinet certification program; the autoclave sterilization efficiency testing program; biohazardous materials security; employee, student, and public health programs; and support of the occupational health programs.

Training is a key component of this position, and the incumbent must be able to work closely with a very diverse community. This position is a primary source of leadership and guidance on biological and laboratory safety, as well as security and regulatory information, for the University. Use sound professional judgement in interpreting and executing biosafety regulations and policy. Ability to build and maintain relationships with a variety of stakeholders. Must have effective communication. This position is a full-time on-site role and requires on-call availability after hours for emergencies.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements for biological materials.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in the areas of microbiology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering relative to plants, animals, and/or humans.
  • Registration with the Select Agent Program as Responsible Official will require a Department of Justice background check.
Physical Demands
  • Sitting for extended periods of time.
  • PPE use (such as PAPRs, protective clothing, battery packs, respirators, gloves, etc.)
  • Standing on hard surfaces for prolonged periods of time.
  • Lifting items up to 20 pounds
  • After‑hours on‑call responsibilities for emergencies
Duties/Responsibilities

 

Duties/Responsibilities
Biosafety Oversight
  • Provide direct supervision to biosafety staff, including performance management, workload distribution, coaching, and day‑to‑day operational guidance.
  • Lead and manage the Office of Biosafety, including staff portfolios, staff professional development, staff schedules, and office and unit priorities. Oversee and serve as the backup for staff to ensure the mission of the office. This may include inspections, training, incident response, and consultations.
  • Consult on the importation and interstate transport of regulated biological materials. Ensure the safety of research involving recombinant DNA; transgenic plants and animals; animal, plant and human pathogens; and biological toxins.
  • Ensure the operation of the following programs: Institutional Review Entity, Dual Use Research of Concern, Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential, and Dangerous Gain of Function, and others as needed.
Percentage of time 45
Duties/Responsibilities
Responsible Official Role

Serve as the Responsible Official (RO) for the UGA Select Agent Program. As the RO, position will have specific, high-level responsibilities and accountability as mandated by federal regulation. The RO role is critical for UGA research compliance. Submit documentation for the maintenance of institutional USDA and CDC certifications, and other regulatory certifications
Percentage of time 20
Duties/Responsibilities
Research Compliance

Serve as a key member of the Institutional Biosafety Committee. Must build and maintain relationships with a variety of stakeholders and provide effective communication and support to the research community. May serve on other compliance committees as needed strategically and represent the Office of Research.
Percentage of time 10
Duties/Responsibilities
Administrative and Facilities Overview
  • Provide guidance for design and management of biosafety facilities and the assurance of appropriate suitability for personnel involved in select agent work.
  • Review and approve standard operating procedures, safety and training manuals and other related policies and documents produced by the Office of Biosafety.
  • Build and sustain inter-unit relationships with researchers to provide best practices and university approaches to biosafety.
  • Support occupational health programs.
  • Ensure development and maintenance of an appropriate website.
Percentage of time 25

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

 

Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below. 
Recruitment Contact Name Lisa Kelly
Recruitment Contact Email [email protected]
How To Apply:

Please apply at https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/485070