• A/BSL3 Project Registration form (PI should request form from
Agent Specific Data Sheet Template
• Manual for UAB COVID-19 Containment Guidance for Researchers
New Important Information
Requests for Assurance
Several UAB researchers have received requests from their NIH program officer to provide assurance that the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) has reviewed research involving genetic manipulations of infectious agents and there are no concerns that the research falls under Dangerous Gain of Function (DGOF) research.
The UAB IBC has long incorporated consideration of dual-use and gain-of-function implications into its review of all recombinant research involving infectious agents, and if your research involves the genetic manipulation of infectious agents, there are several steps principal investigators should take so that UAB can provide documentation of this assurance, if requested:
- Ensure that your work is registered and approved with the IBC.
- If your IBC approval was granted prior to June 2025, request a periodic review of your research.
- If you receive a request from your funding agency for an assurance related to DGOF, forward the request to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with “DGOF Review Assurance” in the subject line.
For additional information contact the UAB IBC (
June 18, 2025
Executive Order 14292, Improving the Safety and Security of Biological Research defines dangerous gain of function research as scientific research on an infectious agent or toxin with the potential to cause disease by enhancing its pathogenicity or increasing its transmissibility.
Implementation: NIH (NOT-OD-25-127) in response to this Executive Order has ordered a suspension of all federally funded grants that has potential for dangerous gain of function research while the DURC-PEPP Policy is being revised or replaced.
Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP)
The United States Government Policy (USG) for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP) is going into effect on May 6th, 2025. The purpose of this “Policy” is to establish a unified federal oversight framework for conducting and managing certain types of federally funded life sciences research on biological agents and toxins that may pose risks to public health, agriculture, food security, economic security, or national security.
This DURC/PEPP Policy applies to all federally funded research, including grants, contracts and cooperative agreements. DURC-PEPP Policy oversight framework and resources for UAB investigators are available at EH&S website here.