Biosafety Coordinator II

Summary

Independently provide professional assistance to the University in monitoring and coordinating a comprehensive biological safety program in accordance with federal, state, local, and granting agency requirements.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Conduct inspections of BSL2 laboratories and labs where non-exempt experiments involving recombinant and synthetic nucleic acids are conducted. Compliance with UF, State, and Federal regulations / guidelines and proficiency with safe procedures are evaluated during inspections, including inspection of animal facilities, greenhouses, and off-site research facilities like IFAS Research & Education Centers.
• Reviews projects involving biohazards submitted to the Biosafety Office and/or Institutional Biosafety Committee; conducts research project risk assessments and makes recommendations for containment and safe practices in accordance with the requirements of NIH Guidelines, CDCs Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories practices, and other federal and state local requirements, and UF policy.
• Ensures that each laboratory has appropriate biosafety, security, and emergency plans. Implements emergency response procedures for incidents involving biohazardous agents and materials; responds to biohazardous materials incidents as appropriate. Investigates laboratory accidents and incidents.
• Advises and consults with researchers regarding risk assessments and SOP preparation for the safe use, storage, transport, and disposal of biohazards including human, animal and plant pathogens, select agents, recombinant nucleic acids, human and non-human primate material, biological toxins, and exotic or invasive species.
• Develops and provides appropriate training to the UF community on a variety of topics related to biosafety, including OSHA-based Blood Borne Pathogen training, DOT/IATA based shipping and transport of hazardous materials, general biosafety training. Monitors teaching and research activities involving the use of biohazardous or recombinant/synthetic biological material for compliance with appropriate regulations, policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Provides technical guidance to faculty and staff in the development of safety plans for grant applications; advises facilities and physical plant staff regarding technical and programmatic issues involving laboratory biosafety design and maintenance.
• Participates in various internal committees and task forces; actively participates in external meetings and organizations, and maintains liaison with professional counterparts in other institutions.
• Special projects as directed by Biosafety Coordinator IIIs or Associate Director/Director.

Education and Experience

Master’s degree or higher in an appropriate area of specialization; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and at least two years of appropriate experience.

Licensure and Certification

N/A

Supervision

This position may have supervisory responsibility.

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