Life Sciences Research References

Useful Links to Life Sciences Research Information, Oversight, and Training

Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) Federal Policies 

United States Government Policy for Oversight of DURC (2024)

  • Includes a list of DURC agents/toxins
  • Outlines criteria for research review and oversight
  • Describes DURC Institutional Review Entity (DURC-IRE) Committee composition and responsibilities 

NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules 

  • Essential guidance for genetic research safety
  • Complementary to DURC requirements
  • Important for research involving engineered pathogens

Federation of American Scientists Biosecurity Education Portal

Cornell Policies and Resources

Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)

  • Reviews research involving biological materials
  • Coordinates with DURC review when applicable
  • Biosafety requirements and guidelines

Environment, Health and Safety

  • Laboratory safety resources
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Training requirements and schedules

Office of Sponsored Programs

  • Proposal submission guidance
  • Award management information
  • Compliance requirements

Research Security Program

  • Export control information
  • International collaboration guidance
  • Security requirements for sensitive research

Training Resources 

DURC Training Module [TBD]

  • Overview of DURC policies and requirements
  • Case studies and examples
  • Required for DURC research personnel

Biosafety and Biosecurity Training

  • Laboratory safety procedures
  • Proper handling of biological materials
  • Required for laboratory personnel

Chemical Safety Training

  • Laboratory safety procedures
  • Proper handling of chemical materials
  • Required for laboratory personnel

Laboratory Security Training

  • Physical security requirements
  • Access control procedures
  • Material handling and transfer protocols

Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR)

  • Ethics in research
  • Best practices for scientific integrity
  • Required training for researchers

CDC Biosafety Guidelines

  • Pathogen safety information
  • Containment requirements
  • Emergency response procedures

Federal Select Agent Program

  • Registration requirements
  • Security measures
  • Transfer procedures