Posted By Vin Mann Hello Alan. Like you I come from a biological research career (see my thread 05.09.04 - note no replies!!). I have also undertaken the NEBOSH certificate course, and was a Biological Safety Officer within the biotech field for five years. With regard to pursuing a career in H&S my experience is that unless you choose the BSO route, you will find the H&S arena somewhat awash with Certificate and Diploma holders with varying experience, skills and expectations. You should be looking for corporate membership of IOSH (via Diploma or Post-Grad Cert/Dip - Hazel Harvey was very helpful to me wrt guidance) but the crucial step is getting work experience with a reputable employee. It may be my expectations but I have found it hard going, have received some but not many encouraging calls into the profession - I shall continue to perservere and I encourage you to also, with an open mind. If I can be of any help drop me your email address. Best of luck.

Posted By Allan Petrie Hi Mark, going to show my ignorance, but what is E? As for environmental experience, 2 years of environmental science at undergraduate level, but that was a few years back. I assume that you're here in ABZ too. Allan

Posted By Heather Sheeley Laboratory Safety Advisor (Ref: 1221) c£25k The Health Protection Agency is dedicated to protecting people’s health. The Agency’s site at Porton Down near Salisbury is internationally recognised as a leader in the research, development and production of vaccines and other biopharmaceutical products - putting us at the forefront of the fight against disease. As a safety specialist, you will be at the heart of our Safety Policy, with particular emphasis on laboratory and production related issues, radiological, office and general safety. Supporting the Head of Safety, you will advise staff on the principles and practices of health and safety, especially as required during the initiation and subsequent development of a project. A firm believer in prevention rather than cure, you will build a high level of awareness of current health regulations and legislation; you will also, naturally, implement and monitor safety systems, audits and accident and incident investigations. All in all, you will work closely with scientific, technical, engineering and administration staff, promoting HPA-PD as a centre of excellence in biosafety. Having spent several years within post-graduate biological research, you will have experience of biological research involving microbiology/infectious agents and quality controlled environments. As well as proven experience, you should have a genuine interest in today’s health and safety issues. In addition to superb interpersonal and communication skills, you’ll need to be PC literate with, ideally, hands-on experience of Excel, Access and Word. It is also essential that you’re self-motivated and willing to participate in “on-call” duties. In addition to ongoing training,we offer a friendly and supportive working culture with flexible working,excellent staff amenities including a restaurant,creche,open learning facilities,sports and social activities, generous leave allowances,pension and life assurance. To obtain an information pack on how to apply,please call us on: 01980 612600, email:human.resources@hpa.org.uk or you can apply online: www.camr.org.uk Please quote reference: 1221.