The UIS Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) is responsible for ensuring that research involving recombinant DNA, human or private cell lines or other bio-hazardous materials, and infectious agents, human blood or blood products, is conducted in such a manner that it minimizes risks from exposure or danger for researchers, teaching faculty, laboratory assistants, students, the UIS community, and the community at-large.  The IBC reviews and approves all work and research involving these agents and materials before the activities begin.  The work of the Committee will be governed by policy, procedures, and best-practices that are designed to address the specific nature of the bio-hazard at the appropriate level of review.

The IBC is responsible for reviewing and approving protocols by investigators, faculty, and staff to conduct research in or use agents and/or materials that may pose a bio-hazardous risk.  The IBC will ensure review and compliance with research through Biosafety level 2, which is suitable for work involving materials and agents with a moderate level of risk to personnel and the environment. The Committee will make recommendations in the containment of the bio-hazards to the faculty, staff, and researchers by reviewing procedures and practices, facilities, training, and the level of expertise of personnel involved in the research.  The IBC will use guidance provided by federal, state and local regulations asa well as IBC policy.

Committee Membership

  • Environmental Health & Safety Officer
  • Animal Safety
  • Plant
  • Molecular Biology/Genetics/Biochemistry
  • Public Health (External)
  • Environmental Protection or Local Emergency Management (External)
  • Biosafety Manual (pdf)

Questions about the UIS Biosafety policy should be addressed to Dr. Richard Stoke, the UIS Biological Safety Officer (rstok3@uis.edu).