IBC: Recombinant DNA

IBC Overview

The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) is responsible for reviewing projects that involve, but are not limited to, synthetic and recombinant DNA, pathogens and other potentially infectious material (including tissue or samples derived from humans), and transgenic animals. The IBC also provides oversight to the intramural community in matters pertaining to the control of biohazards associated with the use of microbiological agents and their vectors. The IBC also represents the interests of the community with respect to public health and protection of the environment.

Who is IBC?

The IBC is a standing committee at Rice University that is responsible for the oversight of research that includes recombinant DNA whose composition and responsibilities are mandated by the NIH Office of Science Policy and the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH guidelines) .

What does the IBC do?

• Lower containment levels for certain experiments in which nucleic acid from Risk Group 2-4 is cloned in non-pathogenic organisms
• Set containment levels for experiments involving whole plants and animals
• Review periodically institutional compliance with NIH Guidelines
• Adopt emergency plans covering spills, contamination, other accidents

The IBC at Rice University

Must be composed of a minimum of 5 members with at least 2 member not affiliated with the institution

• Must have the appropriate expertise collectively for recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecule research, biosafety, and physical containment
• Must consist of plant and animals experts, biosafety officer (as appropriate), and at least one representative member from the laboratory staff.
• Two (2) members must not be affiliated with Rice University who represent the interest of the surround community with respect to health and protection of the environment.

Institutional Biosafety Committee Members