Salary: From £45,209 per annum with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
Job Title: Biological Safety Advisor – Maternity Cover (14 months)
Reports to: Graeme Harkess
Closing Date: 11/Aug/2026 23.59 GMT
Working Pattern: This is a 14‑month fixed‑term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
About the role
This is an opportunity to join a high‑performing Health and Safety team supporting world‑leading biomedical research. The role is a maternity cover for 14 months and focuses on the practical delivery of biological safety support, including advising on work involving biological agents, SAPO (animal viruses), COSHH (human biological agents) and the Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations.
What you will be doing
- Act as a key point of contact for biological safety queries, providing clear and pragmatic advice to research groups and support teams.
- Support delivery of biological safety objectives set by the Lead Biological Safety Specialist.
- Review risk assessments relating to biological agents and genetic modification.
- Advise on the safe storage, transport and disposal of biological materials, including GMOs.
- Support Biological Agent and Genetic Modification Safety Committee (BAGMSC) processes and meetings.
- Provide guidance on work within containment level laboratories, working with user groups and relevant stakeholders.
- Support incident response and investigations, helping identify causes and appropriate actions.
- Coach and support staff to improve understanding and application of biological safety requirements.
About you
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in a biological science or related field.
- Practical understanding of working with biological agents and associated risks.
- Experience of biological risk assessment and application of appropriate control measures.
- Experience of working with genetically modified organisms (or supporting GM risk assessments).
- Working knowledge of health and safety legislation in a scientific or technical environment.
- Ability to provide clear, proportionate advice in a complex and fast‑paced setting.
- Experience working in or advising on containment facilities (CL2/3, ideally 4).
- Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. NEBOSH or equivalent) – desirable.
Benefits
- 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
- Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.
- 24/7 GP consultation services and occupational health services.
- Eye care vouchers, discounted healthcare plans, and mental health support programmes.
- Work‑life balance support: back‑up care for dependents, childcare support allowance, and annual leave purchase options.
- Discounted gym memberships, bike‑to‑work scheme, and shopping discounts.
- On‑site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile to have your application reviewed.
Biological Safety Advisor – Maternity Cover (14 months) employer: Francis Crick Institute Ltd
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and exploration in biomedical research. With generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and comprehensive health and well-being support, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The institute's commitment to diversity and inclusion, alongside opportunities for meaningful impact within a world-class organisation, makes it an attractive place for those seeking to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements.
Contact Details:
Francis Crick Institute Ltd Recruitment Team
