Cambridge Biosafety Forum

IBC Community Representative Training 

The IBC Community Representative Two-Day Training program has been developed to recruit and educate new and current Community Representatives to serve as key members of Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBCs) in Cambridge.

Cambridge residents who are interested in serving are welcome to attend at no charge. All registrants are encouraged to attend both nights of the course.

Biotechnology research and development offers valuable opportunities for the creation of critical therapies for people all over the world who suffer from disease. Sometimes this research involves recombinant DNA, infectious agents, and other inherent laboratory biosafety risks.  A well-run IBC is critical for mitigating risk, providing public assurance, and establishing credibility with the community and its elected officials.

The City of Cambridge mandates that all IBCs include a member of the Cambridge community to serve on its IBC.  They are known as the IBC Community Representative.

• Community Representatives do not need to have a formal scientific background.
• Community Representatives can work in the biotechnology industry and still serve (though not with any permitted firm with which they have a financial connection).
• Prospective Community Representatives who reside in Cambridge will be given first priority, though other unaffiliated residents from nearby communities will also be eligible to attend at no cost.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

• Prospective and current IBC Community Representatives.
• Local public health officials with biosafety or rDNA oversight responsibilities.
• IBC members from companies/institutions permitted in Cambridge.

Participants will learn about the roles and responsibilities of Community Representatives for IBCs and how to become involved.  Topics will include:

• Goals, roles, and responsibilities of IBCs
• An overview of the history of biotechnology
• Emerging gene-editing technologies and their ethical implications
• Introduction to molecular biology of viruses
• Role of the Community Representative on the IBC
• Mock IBC – meeting minutes and project registration review
• Ask the experts panel discussion

REGISTRATION

• There is no cost for new potential Community Representatives to attend.  Additionally, stipends are available for travel and childcare costs.
• Companies with staff or community members already serving on its IBC: $50 per person (whether a current Community Representatives or another IBC member)
• Individual registration (biosafety professionals, public health officials, and others not looking to serve on a Cambridge-based IBC): $50

 Click the link below to submit your registration. Registrants are encouraged to attend both nights of the course.

If payment is required for your registration, please make checks payable to: 

Cambridge Public Health Department 

Payment should be mailed to Ashleigh Allard, Safety Partners, Inc., 19A Crosby Drive, Suite 300, Bedford, MA 01730

Register Now!