FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I submit my application?

All investigators must use eProtocol to submit their application electronically.

How is the expiration date of my protocol determined?

The date the protocol is approved by the IBC determines the protocol expiration date. To remain compliant with federal regulations, protocols expire one day prior to three (3) years after approval.

Who needs to be listed on an IBC protocol?

All personnel who will be handling biological agents must be listed on the IBC protocol. Please see the Biological Agents Research Training page for information on training requirements.

What is the typical turnaround time from protocol submission to protocol approval?

Typically, from the date of submission, the average turnaround time for a protocol is approximately 8.5 weeks. Please note that this is an average and more complicated protocols may take longer for review. The review process has multiple steps that must occur, therefore early submission is highly recommended to avoid delays in your research.

What if I need to make changes in procedures, personnel, drugs, or techniques to my protocol?

An amendment must be submitted if changes are needed to protocols that are already approved. Amendments can be submitted through eProtocol by selecting the protocol and then clicking “Start Amendment”.

What if I need to make a large change to the scope of my original IBC research protocol?

A new protocol will need to be submitted if a large change in the overall purpose of the study or change in the study’s scope is proposed.

RESOURCES

Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) 6th Edition

UTEP Environmental Health and Safety

NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules

NIH Modernizing and Strengthening Oversight of Biosafety

Pre-Approval Education & Support Request - Fill out form

Biological Subjects Research QUick LInks:

Biological Agents Research Research Compliance Research Protections