ABOUT US:

Scripps Research is ranked one of the most influential institutions in the world for its impact on innovation. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Scientists in the institute's six academic research departments work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs to better human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION TITLE: Biosafety Officer

POSITION SUMMARY:

We have an exciting opportunity for a Biosafety Officer assisting the Associate Director, Biosafety in developing, implementing, and administering biosafety policies, procedures and protocols as part of the Institute's overall Environmental Health & Safety Program in La Jolla, California, home of some of the world's most renowned scientists.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Functions as a point of contact during applicable Federal, State and Local regulatory inspections including NIH, CDC, USDA, San Diego County CUPA, Cal/OSHA, AAALAC.
• Assists in semi-annual IACUC inspections when needed.
• Performs routine safety audits of research laboratories, provides training, and applies technical knowledge in all institution-related Biosafety issues ensuring safe procedures are followed and meet the applicable regulatory standards.
• Provides guidance on the permitting process for CDC/USDA import/export, Biodefense, and Emerging Infections Research Resources Repository (BEI Resources) and other applicable vendor and regulatory requirements.
• Operates as the primary backup to the Associate Director, Biosafety in their absence. The Associate Director, Biosafety will be the BSO's primary backup in their absence.
• Works with the Biosafety/EH&S team to develop training for Scripps researchers and other stakeholders.
• Under the supervision of Associate Director, Biosafety ensures BSL3 facility meets all applicable institutional policies and standards and regulations.
• Conducts quarterly safety audits of the BSL-3 and ABSL-3 facilities.
• Conducts monthly BSL3 checks on facility, equipment and operations.
• Plans and carries out annual or as needed preventive maintenance.
• Develops or reviews and continuously improves on the BSL3 manual, standard operating procedures including general practices, facility and equipment operating procedures, and research specific procedures.
• Develops and provides training to researchers, operations and maintenance personnel and all visitors as required by Scripps BSL3 program.
• Reviews BSL3 related design and construction plans.
• Primary emergency contact for all BSL3 incidents.
• Participates in and/or conducts all BSL3 related meeting.
• Serves as a voting member of the IBC.
• Serves as a member of the IRE.
• Serves as Liaison to Export Control Office.
• Carries out Biosafety prereview of IBC applications to ensure applications include all required information to carry out a risk assessment by the IBC member.
• Conducts accident investigations using root cause analysis and develops corrective action plans.
• Participates in departmental emergency response efforts and acts as a member of the emergency response team when biological materials are involved including after hours, on weekends, and during holidays.
• Performs other related duties, tasks and responsibilities as required, assigned or directed.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology or some other closely related biological science or discipline, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 3-5 years' experience working in BSL3 research laboratory and preferably with animals in ABSL3. Experience with research and/or activities involving recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules, biological agents, and toxins preferred.
• 3-5 years experience working as a Biosafety professional
• Demonstrated ability to develop training and train researchers on Biosafety practices
• Experience acting as a liaison with Federal, state, and local regulatory agencies.
• Familiar with Bloodborne Pathogen, Aerosol Transmissible pathogen/Disease, California Medical Waste Management Act, Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), IACUC and IRE
• Familiar with NIH recombinant DNA guidelines, Cal/OSHA BBP and ATD standard and CDC/NIH Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL).
• Knowledge of biological and occupational hazards found in BSL-3 and laboratories.
• Eligibility to obtain certification as a Biological Safety Professional is preferred.
• Demonstrated written, verbal, presentation and computer skills, the latter requiring knowledge of and skill using applications such as MS Office, Adobe Acrobat and knowledge of web-based databases.
• Ability to develop project timeline, track multiple research projects and ensure all applicable requirements are met prior to research approval.
• Related experience in an academic or scientific non-profit institutional setting preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to interact positively with and manage varied technical and non-technical personalities in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
• Must possess a high degree of self-reliance, flexibility, and initiative.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

May include: Stationary position for an extended period of time, traverse campus/facility as needed, operate machinery such as computer, phone, copy machine; exposure to cold or hot temperatures.

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $103,770 to $130,000/annually, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.

EEO Statement:

The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture, and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.