Frequently Asked Questions

Please visit the Protocol Submission (eIBC) for full instructions.

It depends on the complexity of the protocol.  Full protocol reviews usually take 4-6 weeks.  Minor modifications (amendments) and change approvals could be completed in 5 business days.

See IBC Responsibilities on the Policies and Procedures page.

Yes. The Michigan Tech IBC reviews all research involving biohazardous materials as described on the Policies and Procedures page.

While many commercially available vectors are exempt from IBC, a protocol must be submitted and reviewed by the IBC prior to any research starting.

Three years, unless indicated otherwise.

Yes. Michigan Tech has received some funds for research involving the use of recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules.  Therefore, under the NIH Guidelines, all Michigan Tech research involving the use of recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules must be conducted in accordance with the NIH Guidelines. This includes the provision for registration on the part of the PI and review and surveillance on the part of the IBC.

Biological agents include bacteria, viruses, fungi, other microorganisms and their associated toxins. They have the ability to adversely affect human health in a variety of ways, ranging from relatively mild, allergic reactions to serious medical conditions—even death. Some organisms, including various types of mold and Legionella bacteria, are found readily in the natural and built environment. Many are capable of spreading from person to person (e.g., bloodborne pathogens and influenza viruses), either directly or indirectly; some, including Zika virus, are transmitted by insect vectors. In some forms, biological agents can also be weaponized for use in bioterrorism or other crimes (OSHA, Biological Agents, https://www.osha.gov/biological-agents).  Please visit the NIH Library of Medicine for a detailed list of Biological Toxins.

An exposure control plan is required if working with human blood or other potentially infectious materials.

Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) instructions are found in the appendices of the Biosafety Manual. If you are setting up a new BSC or have other BSC questions,, please contact ibc@mtu.edu.

Biological waste (not medical waste or sharps), can be decontaminated by a certified university autoclave, cooled, and placed in an opaque trash bag and moved to a trash dumpster by laboratory personnel. Please visit  Hazardous Waste Collection and Disposal for additional information.

Please contact ibc@mtu.edu to receive a sharps container and be added to the email reminder list for 90 day pick-up procedures.