University Standing Committees and Task Forces

Duties

The Institutional Biological Safety Committee (IBSC) was originally established in order to conform to National Institute of Health (NIH) guidelines.  The IBSC is now involved in the oversight of all projects involving infectious agents and recombinant DNA.  The responsibilities of the IBSC are:  to review the use of Class 1 and 2 biohazardous agents; to review and approve the use of Class 3 agents; to select agents and recombinant DNA; to review the Biological Safety Program annually to determine if the program is effective and compliant with regulations; to advise the Institutional Biological Safety Officer (ISBO) and support the biological safety program; to assist the IBSO with enforcement of regulations and guidelines; and to advise the Vice President for Research.

Composition

The committee consists of no fewer than five members from the faculty and staff who fulfill requirements listed under Section IV-B-2-a of the NIH Guidelines.  In addition, NIH requires that the membership include the Institutional Biosafety Officer and two non-affiliated community members.  A Faculty Senate representative is a member of the committee, and a representative from the Office of Counsel serves as liaison.  Members of the committee are appointed by the President upon the recommendation of the Institutional Biological Safety Officer and are subject to approval by the Office of Biotechnology Activities at the National Institute of Health.

Reporting Channel

Dr. Joe Benson, Interim Vice President for Research

Membership

Harriett E. Smith-Somerville, Chairperson Professor, Biological Sciences
Hank Heath Assoc Professor, Biological Sciences
John Vincent Professor, Chemistry
Matt Green Assoc. Professor, Exercise Science
Alvin Winters Assoc. Professor, Biological Sciences
Lawrence HIll Director, Information Technology and Engineering Ser.
Steve Tucker Director, Public Service

Community Members

Don Pugh
Catherine Walker

Faculty Senate Representative

Ed Stephenson

Liaison

Marianne WoodsAssociate Vice President for Research
Keith McDowell Vice President for Research
Mike Spearing Office of Counsel