Biosafety

CSULB, as an institution conducting or sponsoring recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules research, is governed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (NIH Guidelines For Research Involving Recombinant Or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules).

Projects using procedures that generate any of the recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules listed in Section III-F (PDF) of the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules that will not be subsequently cloned may be exempt and usage is not subject to IBC review and approval.

The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs Research Compliance Team in collaboration with the CNSM Safety Office and the Department of Environmental Health and Safety provide oversight in conjunction with the Institutional Bio-Safety Committee (IBC) to ensure compliance with the IBC Executive Order.

The IBC provides guidance for faculty, staff, and students on issues related to the use of recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules in teaching, research, and related activities.  The goal of the program is to minimize the risks associated with the use and maintenance of biohazardous materials, maintain a safe and healthy work environment, and guard against the release of biohazardous materials that may harm humans, animals, plants or the environment.  The IBC assists investigators with questions concerning the submission of their Application for Use of rDNA, develops and disseminates educational materials related to IBC activities, and prepares and submits internal and external reports related to IBC activities.

The Institutional Bio-Safety Committee for Use of Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules was established to ensure that recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules are used in conformity with the federal Guidelines. The CSULB IBC is comprised of at least seven members so selected that collectively the Committee has experience and expertise in rDNA to assess the risks to public health associated with the use of rDNA molecules. The IBC includes persons with expertise in DNA technology, biological safety, physical containment facilities and procedures.