Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)
The IBC is responsible for monitoring and ensuring the compliance of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) laboratories with the NIH Guidelines, as well as for reviewing and approving of all research projects involving recombinant/synthetic nucleic acid molecules.
Carnegie Mellon's Department of Environmental Heath and Safety (EHS) recognizes that manipulation and insertion of recombinant/synthetic nucleic acids into various organisms is an integral part of many of CMU’s research and teaching laboratories.
What are considered Recombinant and Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules?
In the context of the NIH Guidelines, the definition of recombinant and synthetic nucleic acids can be found in section I-B.
Recombinant and Synthetic Nucleic Acids Research Applications
To register a new project, modify an existing project or renew approval of a current project, please use the research application.
Any human subject or animal research MUST go through the Office of Research Integrity and Compliance.
To file for exemption from the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules, please complete the exemption form.
Training for Research Pertaining to the NIH Guidelines
Training is required for all persons whose research involves the use or manipulation of recombinant or synthetic nucleic acids as defined by the NIH Guidelines.
Course: Overview of the Current NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules
Training Resources
- Biological Inventory Checklist [XLS]
- CDC’s Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) [PDF]
- Experiments that are Exempt from the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines) Frequently Asked Questions [PDF]
- IBC's NIH Educational and Guidance Documents
- Institutional Biosafety Committee Policies and Procedures
- Investigator Responsibilities under the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules
- Public’s Request for Minutes and Comments Regarding the IBC Guideline
- Recombinant and Synthetic Nucleic Acid Materials Spills Guideline