On May 5, 2025, the White House issued an Executive Order (EO) on Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research and an accompanying Factsheet regarding dangerous gain-of-function (GOF) research[1]. The EO struck down the recently implemented 2024 US Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Pandemic Potential (USG Policy). Two days later, NIH released Notice … Read More
ARC POLICY UPDATE
The ARC recently updated the policy Restricted Access to Water. The Policy was modified to encourage gradual acclimation to restriction and to establish a maximum threshold for consecutive hours of restriction. Additional updates were made to clarify and better format information within the Policy. We encourage you to review and discuss this policy with your research team if it is … Read More
Important Update: New NIH Transparency Requirements for IBCs Effective June 1, 2025
On March 28, 2025, the NIH issued a Guide Notice (NOT-OD-25-082) outlining new expectations for institutions conducting research subject to the NIH Guidelines For Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules (NIH Guidelines). Effective June 1, 2025, the following transparency requirements will be implemented: We encourage all investigators to review the full NIH notice for additional details and to … Read More
IBC Guidance: SARS-CoV-2 Downgrade
The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) has issued updated guidance following the NIH Office of Science Policy’s (OSP) downgrade of SARS-CoV-2 from Risk Group 3 (RG3) to Risk Group 2 (RG2). This guidance outlines revised biosafety containment and procedural requirements for SARS-CoV-2 research at UCLA. Key Updates: Required Actions for Researchers: For questions, contact the IBC at IBC@research.ucla.edu or the Biosafety … Read More
Systemwide Review of Proposed New Presidential Policy on High-Containment Research
The University of California, Office of the President invites comments on a proposed new Presidential Policy on High-Containment Research. The policy includes the following key issues: If you have any questions or if you wish to comment, please email Director-Research Safety & Animal Welfare Jennifer Klahn or IBC Manager Kristina Britchford by May 31, 2025.
IBC Update: New DURC/PEPP Policy & SafetyNet Enhancements
IBC Insights We are thrilled to launch our very first IBC Insights, your quarterly guide through the world of biosafety and compliance. Our Mission? To empower your research with the knowledge and tools you need to excel safely and responsibly. UCLA to Implement Updated Federal Policy on High-Risk Biological Research Effective May 6, 2025, UCLA must be compliant with the … Read More
IBC Update: New DURC/PEPP Policy & SafetyNet Enhancements
IBC Insights We are thrilled to launch our very first IBC Insights, your quarterly guide through the world of biosafety and compliance. Our Mission? To empower your research with the knowledge and tools you need to excel safely and responsibly. UCLA to Implement Updated Federal Policy on High-Risk Biological Research Effective May 6, 2025, UCLA must be compliant with the … Read More
3Rs Pilot Studies Call for Proposals – Deadline for Submission: April 11, 2025
The Animal Research Committee (ARC) is pleased to announce the Spring 2025 3Rs funding opportunity, provided by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Creative Activities. The VCR is once again offering up to $20,000 for the current award cycle. Aim of Award: The aim of the program is to promote and support pilot studies designed to replace the … Read More
Preparing UCLA Research Labs: Animal Activities and Oversight
The ARC and DLAM provide guidance to investigators regarding preparing laboratories for reduced campus activities due to the Palisades Fire.
Systemwide Review of Proposed Presidential Policy on Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential
The University of California Office of the President invites comments on the proposed Presidential Policy on Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential. This policy revises the current UC Dual Use Research of Concern Policy with new and updated provisions, per the White House communication on dual use research issued May 6, 2024. Specifically, the Office … Read More