Biohazards - Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)
The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) was established under the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules to provide local review and oversight of nearly all forms of research utilizing recombinant DNA. At Iowa State University, the IBC must approve and issue a biohazardous materials use authorization for any teaching or research project that involves
- use of recombinant DNA, including transgenic animals or plants;
- use of human, animal or plant pathogens not indigenous to Iowa (e.g., bacteria, viruses, prions, parasites);
- use of biological toxins;
- administration of experimental biological products to animals;
- field releases of plant pests not indigenous to Iowa or genetically modified organisms.
The purpose of IBC review of teaching and research projects is to provide for the safe conduct of work involving hazardous biological materials and to ensure compliance with applicable external regulations and Iowa State University policies.
The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) also has responsibility for reviewing the biological and public health safety programs at Iowa State University and for setting policies that comply with federal, state, and local regulations. IBC members are appointed by the Vice President for Research and Economic Development and the President.
