Laboratory Safety Officer - Generative Biology Institute

The Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) tackles humanity’s greatest challenges by turning science and technology into impactful global solutions. Focused on areas led by a faculty of world experts, EIT seeks to solve the world’s most challenging problems across four high-risk, high-reward, high-impact humane endeavours: Health, Medical Science and Generative Biology; Food security and Sustainable agriculture; Clean Energy Generation and Storage; and Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

A cornerstone of EIT mission is its upcoming 300,000-square-foot research facility at the Oxford Science Park, set to open in 2027. This cutting-edge campus will feature advanced labs, an oncology and preventative care clinic, and collaborative spaces to strengthen its partnership with the University of Oxford. It will also host the Ellison Scholars, driving innovation for societal benefit.

The Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) aims to overcome two major challenges in making biology engineerable: 1) the ability to precisely synthesize entire genomes, and 2) understanding which DNA sequences will create biological systems that perform desired functions. Solving these challenges will unlock the potential of biology for transformative solutions in health, sustainability, agriculture, and more. GBI will house 30 groups and over 300 researchers, supported by cutting-edge facilities and sustained funding to address global challenges and advance biology engineering.

EIT fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, valuing diverse expertise to drive sustainable solutions to humanity’s enduring challenges.

GBI is seeking a Laboratory Safety Officer to support the safe and compliant operation of its laboratories. Reporting to the Head of Laboratory Operations and working closely with the central EIT Head of Health & Safety, the role ensures regulatory compliance, maintains health and safety procedures, and supports evolving research activities. The Laboratory Safety Officer will also contribute to the central EH&S Committee, promoting best practices and cross-site collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

• To assist in developing and to implement and maintain GBI’s health and safety policies in line with standards across UK legislation and industry best practices (e.g. HSE, COSHH, COMAH), ensuring a safe working environment.

• To ensure full compliance with relevant regulations for GBI, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), and other applicable regulatory frameworks.

• To conduct or support risk assessments, safety audits, and incident investigations as required, driving continual improvement in health and safety performance.
• To ensure proper documentation of processes, workflows, and sample handling procedures in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• To review and provide input on experimental protocols where required, ensuring alignment with biosafety and regulatory standards.
• To coordinate and deliver health and safety training programmes for all GBI laboratory personnel.
• To identify and manage biological, chemical and radiological hazards, ensuring appropriate control measures are in place across GBI’s operations.
• To manage safety infrastructure and equipment, including PPE, emergency systems, waste disposal, and lab-specific containment and ventilation requirements.
• To support preparation for external audits and inspections, including those by the HSE, ensuring readiness and accurate record-keeping.
• To promote a proactive safety culture by working closely with researchers and technical staff to reinforce best practices and continuous improvement.
• To recruit, train, and support staff in best practices for laboratory safety, providing guidance on risk management, emergency procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• Partner with EIT Health & Safety teams to align on approaches for health and safety.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• A degree in Life Sciences, Bioengineering, Synthetic Biology, or a related field, with hands-on laboratory experience.

• In-depth knowledge of laboratory health and safety requirements, with direct experience supporting safety operations in environments involving synthetic biology, hazardous chemicals, or biohazardous materials.

Strong technical expertise in

• Chemical, biological, and radiation safety regulations

• Risk assessments, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), and laboratory hazard control measures

• Experience in safety audits and/or regulatory inspections (preferred).

• Ability to drive continuous improvements in health and safety, aligning safety initiatives with the evolving needs of a cutting-edge research environment

• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with researchers and technical staff across GBI, ensuring alignment with experimental requirements.

We offer the following benefits:

• Enhanced holiday pay
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance
• Hospital Cash Plan
• Therapy Services
• Perk Box
• Electrical Car Scheme

Why work for EIT:

At the Ellison Institute, we believe a collaborative, inclusive team is key to our success. We are building a supportive environment where creative risks are encouraged, and everyone feels heard. Valuing emotional intelligence, empathy, respect, and resilience, we encourage people to be curious and to have a shared commitment to excellence. Join us and make an impact!

Terms of Appointment:

• You must have the right to work permanently in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary.
• You will live in, or within easy commuting distance of, Oxford.
• During peak periods, some longer hours may be required and some working across multiple time zones due to the global nature of the programme.