As a biological safety officer, you will work closely with the University's occupational hygienist. In this position, you will support the entire organisation across a broad scope of biological safety aspects: genetic modification, biological agents, animal by-products, fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources (Cartagena and Nagoya Protocols), transportation of biological agents and protected species. You will assist in the implementation of laws, regulations and policy, paying particular attention to their impact on research. You will work closely with colleagues in the health and safety team.

Your key responsibilities include:

• monitoring and advising on GMO legislation and related laws and regulations;
• assisting researchers in carrying out a risk assessment of activities involving genetically modified organisms (GMOs);
• reviewing risk assessments;
• managing the central GMO administration, including risk assessments and notifications, forms and floor plans;
• developing and regularly updating handbook and information materials for research leaders/researchers, and actively delivering them to target groups;
• coordinating the handling of biosecurity incidents and incidents involving biological agents and conducting root cause investigations;
• conducting internal audits in the context of compliance with regulations and organisational rules, including promoting the implementation of improvement measures;
• advising researchers on developing work protocols.

• several years of work experience in the field of molecular biology or microbiology research;
• Professional and intellectual capacities at higher professional education (HBO) / university graduate (WO) level;
• experience in working in a complex organisation;
• good command of spoken and written Dutch and English;
• good communication and advisory skills;
• good planning and organisational skills, and able to distinguish main issues from secondary issues;
• capable of independent action;
• good team player;
• excellent work ethics;
• the intention, where that is not already the case, to be recognised in due course as a Biological Safety Officer (BSO) as referred to in the GMO Decree 2013 for activities in laboratories, animal holding facilities and greenhouses at containment levels I and II.

The employment contract is initially entered into for a term of twelve months. After this initial period, and subject to satisfactory performance, there is a possibility of permanent appointment. Depending on factors such as educational attainment, knowledge and relevant work experience, a salary at scale 11 (maximum €5,230) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement (CAO) for Dutch Universities will be offered.

We also offer excellent secondary employment benefits, including 29 days of leave for full-time employees, a year-end bonus of 8.3% and an optional model for employment conditions.

The Safety and Health (V&G) department provides optimum support for all issues and obligations relating to working conditions, prevention and reintegration, ionising radiation, genetically modified organisms and company emergency response. V&G strives to achieve a safe, healthy and sustainable working and study environment and makes a positive contribution to the sustainable employability of UT employees. All this in close cooperation with the VG coordinators in the faculties and services.