The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) is responsible for oversight of the conduct of research involving recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules, cells, organisms, or viruses containing these nucleic acid molecules at St. Edward’s University.   The IBC is also committed to assisting investigators in the development of research protocols that are in compliance with national policies.

Why must we have an IBC?

The rationale behind having an IBC is to assess the risk associated with the use of recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules and ensure that a comprehensive risk mitigation plan is in place prior to conducting the research. The IBC is a self-regulating body which derives its existence from the regulations of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the NIH Office of Biotechnology Activities at https://osp.od.nih.gov/wp-content/uploads/Requirements_for_IBCs.ppt

What is the composition of the IBC?

• The IBC must be comprised of a minimum of five members including:
• At least two non-affiliates (a person who has no other affiliation with the organization other than sitting on the IBC committee and represents the concerns of the community.)
• Individuals with appropriate recombinant and synthetic nucleic acid expertise collectively
• Individuals with plant and animal expertise collectively
• Institutional officer(s) as appropriate

Click here for a list of current IBC members.

What are the responsibilities of the IBC?

The responsibilities of the IBC include, but are not limited to:

• Review research proposals involving recombinant and synthetic nucleic acid molecules.
• Approve, require modifications to, or withhold approval for such proposals.
• Review and approve, require modifications to, or withhold approval of proposed significant changes to ongoing approved research.
• Additional review responsibilities may be conducted for research involving select agents and toxins, blood borne pathogens, xenotransplantation, stem cell research, and related nanotechnologies.