Institutional Biosafety Committee

The Children’s National Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) acts as the institutional review body for all research activities utilizing recombinant DNA technology as required and outlined in the NIH Guidelines (PDF) for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules.

The IBC is charged with reviewing recombinant DNA research proposals, as well as providing researchers guidance for conducting their recombinant DNA studies in a manner that minimizes exposure risk for research personnel and the environment. Before any research involving recombinant DNA can be initiated, it must have received IBC review and approval.

The IBC meets regularly to discuss and review new and active recombinant DNA protocols. These meetings are open to the public. If you would like to participate in a meeting, please contact the IBC administrator for more information and schedules.

Oversight

The Children’s National IBC also oversees research with other potentially biohazardous materials. The IBC currently oversees:
- Recombinant DNA and synthetic nucleic acid molecules (this includes human gene transfer studies)
- Infectious agents
- Biological toxins
- Human-derived materials (tissues, fluids, cells)
- Certain animal-derived tissues, fluids, cells
- Federally regulated Select Agents, experiments with Dual Use Research of Concern potential, and research requiring BSL2+ containment

Principal Investigator Responsibilities

While conducting research subject to the NIH Guidelines, the Principal Investigator must:
- Determine the need for IBC review before modifying recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid research already approved by the IBC
- Submit any subsequent changes (e.g., changes in the source of DNA or host-vector system) to the IBC for review and approval
- Remain in communication with the IBC throughout the duration of the project
- Report any significant problems pertaining to the operation and implementation of containment practices and procedures, violations of the NIH Guidelines, or any significant research-related accidents and illnesses to the IBC, NIH Office of Science Policy (NIH OSP), and the Biological Safety Officer

Radiation Safety Committee

The Children’s National Hospital Institutional Biosafety Committee is a committee of experts in biosafety-related fields established under the NIH Guidelines. The IBC ensures that all research conducted at Children’s National Hospital and Children’s National Research Institute complies with applicable federal, state and local health, safety standards and institutional policies.