Biosafety

Research laboratories working with biohazardous agents, microorganisms and/or recombinant DNA technologies are special, often unique, work environments. The materials being used may pose special risks to persons working in or near the laboratory or to the environment should the material escape the containment procedures established for the laboratory.

Oversight of Research Involving General Biohazards

The UNC Charlotte Biosafety Committee (BSC) reviews research and provides guidance on the safe handling of biohazardous agents. The goal of this committee is to ensure the appropriate assessment of potential risks and reduce the opportunity of personnel exposure or accidental environmental release.

Oversight of Research Involving Recombinant DNA

The University’s Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) reviews research and provides guidance on research involving the use of recombinant DNA (rDNA). The goals of this committee are to ensure proper containment levels, facilities assessment, training, procedures and practices as required by NIH Guidelines.

Research Using Commercially-Available Viral Vector Kits

Research conducted with commercially available viral vector kits is NOT EXEMPT but falls under NIH Guideline Section III-D and requires Institutional Biosafety Committee approval before initiation.  If you are using these kits and do not have IBC approval, you must file an application as soon as possible. 

For more information, go to the NIH Guidelines. 

For filing instructions, go to the UNC Charlotte Biosafety form.