Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

Posting Details

Posting Number: S15198P

Working Title: Director of Biosafety and Responsible Official

Department: VPR-Biosafety

About the University of Georgia: Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department

Posting Type

External

Retirement Plan

TRS or ORP

Employment Type

Employee

Benefits Eligibility

Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time

Full Time

Work Schedule

Additional Schedule Information

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

Advertised Salary

Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date

05/22/2026

Open until filled

Yes

Closing Date

Proposed Starting Date

09/01/2026

Location of Vacancy

Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement

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, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy . Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Position Information

Classification Title: Safety Manager

FLSA: Exempt

FTE: 1.00

Minimum Qualifications

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Is driving a responsibility of this position?

Yes

Is this a Position of Trust?

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?

No

Does this position require a P-Card?

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.