About usThe Institute of Infection, Immunity and Transplantation (IIT) is a leading department within UCL's Faculty of Medical Sciences, bringing together world-class researchers working at the forefront of immunology, infectious diseases, and pathogen biology. The Institute comprises approximately 170 staff and undertakes both discovery and translational research aimed at improving human health. Based across the Pears Building and the Centre for Clinical Microbiology on the Royal Free Campus, IIT provides a collaborative and dynamic environment supporting cutting-edge biomedical research.
About the roleWe are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Lead Containment Level 2/3 Laboratory Manager and Institute Safety Officer to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for our CL2 and CL3 laboratory facilities.
This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of containment laboratories supporting internationally recognised research programmes. You will lead the management of all CL2 and CL3 facilities within the Institute, oversee laboratory safety and regulatory compliance, and act as the Institute Safety Officer.
Working closely with academics, researchers, professional services staff, Estates, and biosafety stakeholders, you will drive best practice in laboratory operations, health and safety, training, sustainability, and facility management.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading the management, maintenance, and development of CL2 and CL3 laboratory facilities.
Acting as Institute Safety Officer and providing expert advice on biological safety and regulatory compliance.
Overseeing risk assessments, safety documentation, and regulatory submissions.
Managing laboratory inductions and training programmes for staff and students.
Chairing CL3 User Group and Oversight Committee meetings.
Managing laboratory budgets in collaboration with Institute leadership.
Line managing the Assistant Laboratory Manager.
Supporting strategic planning and future development of containment laboratory infrastructure.
Working collaboratively across UCL to promote consistent and effective CL3 practicesAbout youYou will be an experienced laboratory professional with substantial expertise in containment laboratory management and biological safety.
To succeed in this role, you will have: Significant experience working with viral and bacterial pathogens, including Hazard Group 2 and Hazard Group 3 organisms.
Extensive experience managing CL2 and CL3 research laboratories.
Strong knowledge of health and safety legislation, biological risk management, and regulatory compliance.
Experience overseeing work involving genetically modified microorganisms and complex biological risk assessments. A proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop staff in a research environment. Excellent stakeholder management skills, with experience working with Estates teams, biosafety professionals, regulators, and senior academic staff. Experience contributing to strategic planning and operational improvements within research or higher education environments.
Knowledge of UCL's T100 Health and Safety Management Systems, LEAF, or similar laboratory sustainability and safety frameworks.
Outstanding organisational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, with the confidence to make informed decisions in complex environments.
Most importantly, you will be a collaborative and inclusive leader who is passionate about enabling high-quality research through the delivery of safe, efficient, and well-managed laboratory facilitiesPlease see the attached job description and person specification for full details. Please also read the attached Candidate Guidance document.
All applications must include a supporting statement to explain your motivation for the post and provide evidence using examples to showcase how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Applications without a supporting statement will be rejected.
If you have any queries about the role or application process, have any technical issues, or need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, please contact the staffing team at hr.ii@ucl.ac.uk. What we offerAs well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase schemeDefined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loanImmigration loanRelocation scheme for certain postsOn-Site nurseryOn-site gymEnhanced maternity, paternity and adoption payEmployee assistance programme: Staff Support ServiceDiscounted medical insuranceVisit to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and InclusionAs London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.
We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL's workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.
Read more: UCL Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
Applicants should also familiarise themselves with UCL's policies on: Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Personal Relationships Policy.
Lead Containment Level 2/3 Laboratory Manager and Institute Safety in London employer: UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON
UCL's Information Services Division (ISD) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration among over 50,000 staff and students. With a commitment to employee growth, ISD provides extensive benefits including 41 days of holiday, a defined benefit pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development in cutting-edge technology areas. Located in the heart of London, UCL promotes a diverse and inclusive culture, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in higher education.
