What do I put in the research description? Do you want an abstract?
The IBC protocol is essentially a risk assessment of proposed research with biological materials. The research description
should be a brief summary of experiments proposed with emphasis on applicable pathogenicity, toxicity of any gene product(s) along
with handling and decontamination of materials at the conclusion of experiments. IBC Review focuses on the biosafety aspects of
a protocol, not scientific merit.
Is an IBC protocol a blanket approval for any experiment which fall under a certain section
of the guidelines?
No. The researcher is ONLY approved for experiments described in the protocol.
Additional or changes in experiments must be submitted subsequently using protocol amendments. Although a protocol can be
written with a fair amount of scope, it is never all-inclusive.
I've made the revisions requested. Why didn't the revised protocol get submitted for
review?
After revisions are made, you must electronically resubmit the protocol (i.e., hit the SUBMIT
button). It is advisable to check "my projects" often when logging into NUgrant. You may notify EHS if experiencing any
technical difficulties.
I've submitted the protocol for pre-review. May I begin the
experiments?
Typically, protocols require full committee approval before commencing any work. However,
you may contact the Biosafety Officer to inquire about any permissible experiments prior to full committee approval.
What happens if I conduct unapproved work with recombinant or sythetic nucleic
acids?
Conducting unapproved experiments can result in a non-compliance report sent directly to the
NIH for review. This can jeopardize federal funding opportunities not only for the PI, but for the university as a
whole.
I want to use the CRISPR/ Cas9 gene editing system. Do I need to submit an IBC
protocol?
Depending on the type of system used, a protocol may be required. Often, when using the
CRISPR system, work may not begin until full committee approval is obtained. Please contact the Biosafety Officer to assist
with a determination.
My work is exempt from the NIH Guidelines. Is an IBC protocol still
required?
Yes. Even though the work may be exempt from the NIH Guidelines, IBC registration is
still required.
I am a department head/chair, whom should
I list as the Department Head/Chair/Dean/Director on my IBC protocol?
Department heads/chairs should list the Research Dean for their college in the Department
Head/Chair/Dean/Director role on their research protocols. The purpose of having this role listed on the IBC protocol and as
part of the protocol routing/approval process is to ensure that supervisors are aware of the research being conducted by faculty
under their purview and that those faculty have the necessary support and facilities to conduct the work safely.
I'm not sure what
section of the NIH Guidelines my animal experiment(s) fall under. Is there an easy reference to help?
Yes! The NIH Office of Science Policy has published a reference table that should help you figure
out what section of the Guidelines your experiment(s) fall under.