The Francis Crick Institute
Biological Safety Advisor – Maternity Cover
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Details of the role:
Working pattern: This is a 14 month fixed term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment. Salary: From £45,209 with benefits, subject to skills and experience Application closing date: 11th of August 2026 at 23.59
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.
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We're looking for someone with a strong working knowledge of biological agent and GM risks, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to manage their own workload effectively. You'll be confident in providing practical advice, building relationships across a diverse research environment, and recognising when issues need to be escalated.
What you will be doing
You will:
- Acting as a key point of contact for biological safety queries, providing clear and pragmatic advice to research groups and support teams
- Supporting delivery of biological safety objectives set by the Lead Biological Safety Specialist
- Reviewing risk assessments relating to biological agents and genetic modification
- Advising on the safe storage, transport and disposal of biological materials, including GMOs
- Supporting Biological Agent and Genetic Modification Safety Committee (BAGMSC) processes and meetings
- Providing guidance on work within containment level laboratories, working with user groups and relevant stakeholders
- Supporting incident response and investigations, helping identify causes and appropriate actions
- Coaching and supporting staff to improve understanding and application of biological safety requirements
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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
Minimum criteria*
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.
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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
Find out more about life at the Crick.
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 programs.
- 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.
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