At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert biological safety advice and support for world-class biomedical research.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Generous leave, health support, pension scheme, and discounted gym memberships.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Degree in biological science and experience with biological agents and risk assessments.
The predicted salary is between 45209 - 45209 £ per year.
Salary for this Role: From £45,209 per annum with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
Reports to: Graeme Harkess
Closing Date: 11/Aug/2026 23.59 GMT
Details of the role: This is a 14 month fixed term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
About us: The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high-quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.
About the role: This is an opportunity to join a high-performing Health and Safety team supporting world-leading biomedical research. We are looking for a Biological Safety Advisor, who will provide expert biological safety advice and support across the Francis Crick Institute. You will work closely with researchers, technical staff and colleagues within the Health and Safety team. During this 14-month maternity cover, you will help maintain safe systems of work and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements. The role 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. You will review and advise on biological risk assessments, support new biological agent and GM work, liaise with regulators on notifications, and act as the first point of contact for biological safety and GM-related queries.
What you will be doing: You will:
- 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: You will have:
- 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) - Desirable.
- Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. NEBOSH or equivalent) - Desirable.
About Working at the Crick: Our values: Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture. We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently. We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world. We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community. At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences. We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: karen.au@crick.ac.uk.
What will you receive? At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development:
- Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
- Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.
- Health & Well-being: 24/7 GP consultation services. Occupational health services and mental health support programmes. Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
- Work-Life Balance: Back-up care for dependents. Childcare support allowance. Annual leave purchase options. Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.
- Perks: Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts. Subsidised 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. We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.
Biological Safety Advisor – Maternity Cover (14 months) in London employer: Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute offers an exceptional environment for postdoctoral fellows, combining cutting-edge research with a strong commitment to mentorship and professional development. Located in London, the DiFrisco Lab fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating culture, providing access to high-performance computing, generous research funding, and opportunities for training that empower employees to grow their careers in theoretical biology and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Biological Safety Advisor – Maternity Cover (14 months) in London
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
Get yourself into the loop by joining local biotech meetups or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections with professionals in the field and can often lead to temporary gigs through word-of-mouth. Plus, you'll get to hear about the latest trends and developments directly from the source.
✨Showcase Your Passion in Science
Consider starting a blog or social media channel to showcase your interest in biotechnology. Share the latest research, your insights, and even your projects. This will not only enhance your visibility in the community but also attract potential employers like Francis Crick Institute who might be scrolling through for talent.
✨Tap into University Resources
If you’re still in school or recently graduated, don’t forget to use your university’s career services. They often have exclusive connections with companies looking for temporary staff. Reach out to them for internship listings and networking opportunities tailored to the biotech sector.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot that perfect temporary role at Francis Crick Institute, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, you’ll be in the best position to get noticed quickly and can show your enthusiasm for the role while filling out the application.
We think you need these skills to ace Biological Safety Advisor – Maternity Cover (14 months) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to Francis Crick Institute as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at Francis Crick Institute.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at Francis Crick Institute. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at Francis Crick Institute.
How to prepare for a job interview at Francis Crick Institute
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at Francis Crick Institute aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.
