Director of Biosafety and Official

Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

Posting Number: S15198P

Working Title:

Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

Department: VPR-Biosafety

Posting Type:
External Retirement Plan TRS or ORP

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:
Eligible

Benefits:
Full/Part time;
Full Time

Work Schedule:

Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Salary:
Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date: 05/22/2026

Closing Date:
Proposed Starting Date 07/01/2026 (open until filled)

Location of Vacancy:
Athens Area

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience to include 3 years of supervisory experience.

• 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)
• Master’s, PhD or DVM in related field of science
• Registered Biosafety Professional credentials
• Previous Responsible Official (RO) experience
• Higher education or governmental agency experience

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. It works closely with USDA, CDC, state and local authorities, and professional organizations to assure compliance, minimize environmental risks, and protect human health and the environment.

• 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, professional development, schedules, and office priorities. Oversee inspections, training, incident response, and consultations.
• Consult on the importation and interstate transport of regulated biological materials.
• Ensure safe conduct of research involving recombinant DNA; transgenic plants and animals; animal, plant and human pathogens; and biological toxins.
• Ensure operation of Institutional Review Entity, Dual Use Research of Concern, Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential, and Dangerous Gain of Function programs.

• Serve as the Responsible Official (RO) for the UGA Select Agent Program, fulfilling federal regulatory responsibilities and maintaining USDA and CDC certifications.

• Serve as a key member of the Institutional Biosafety Committee, building stakeholder relationships and providing support to the research community.
• Coordinate with other compliance committees as needed.

• Guide design and management of biosafety facilities to ensure suitability for select agent work.
• Review and approve standard operating procedures, safety and training manuals, and related policies.
• Build inter‑unit relationships with researchers to share best practices.
• Support occupational health programs.
• Maintain appropriate website for biosafety information.

• Knowledge of regulatory requirements for biological materials.
• Proficiency in microbiology, molecular biology, and genetic engineering as applied to plants, animals, and/or humans.
• Background check as required for Responsible Official duties.

• Sitting for extended periods.
• PPE use (PAPRs, protective clothing, battery packs, respirators, gloves, etc.).
• Standing on hard surfaces for prolonged periods.
• Lifting up to 20 pounds.
• After‑hours on‑call responsibilities for emergencies.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status.

Persons needing accommodations or assistance with accessibility of materials are encouraged to contact Central HR at hrweb.

Recruitment Contact:
Lisa Kelly, Email: lmkelly.

Required documents:

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• List of References with Contact Information

Optional documents:

• Any additional supporting documents