Complete the training required for your research before accessing the University of Pittsburgh’s MyIBC application review systems.
POLICY UPDATE
Changes to life sciences research review requirements are coming soon
The new U.S. government policy for Stopping High Risk Life Sciences Research replaces the DURC/PEPP requirements with broader oversight, new review and certification requirements, and restrictions on high-risk life sciences research. The new rules are expected to be implemented in early January 2027.
Training requirements
The University requires a Pitt or UPMC email address to gain access to MyIBC. MyIBC contains two distinct protocol application review systems:
- IBC: Review of research involving recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules.
- hSCRO: Review of the use and handling of human embryonic stem cells or human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) administered to animals.
To access either or both systems, complete the relevant training below.
IBC TRAINING
Biosafety — MyIBC
The NIH Guidelines require training for all researchers and laboratory personnel working with recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules. This is currently a one-time requirement.
Complete the “Biosafety — MyIBC” training module through Pitt’s CITI Access Portal.
hSCRO TRAINING
Human Stem Cell Research
The University of Pittsburgh requires training for all researchers and laboratory personnel working with human stem cells to access MyIBC. This is currently a one-time requirement.
Complete the “Human Stem Cell Research” training module through Pitt’s CITI Access Portal.
Get started with your training
- Set up your account. Visit the Pitt CITI Access Portal for account setup instructions.
- Sign in. Select “Log In to CITI” on the portal.
- Add your course. Find the appropriate training course and add it to your list of courses.
- Complete the training. Finish the required course modules.
- Allow time for your record to transfer. Access to MyIBC is provided after completion data transfers from CITI, typically overnight.
Need help with MyIBC?
The IBC offers personalized Q&A, guidance, and training for the online IBC submission process, including customized sessions to meet your needs.
To schedule an appointment or request a session, email IBC_Support@pitt.edu.
Investigator responsibilities
Under the NIH Guidelines, Section IV-B-7, the investigator is responsible for full compliance with the NIH Guidelines when conducting research involving recombinant or synthetic nucleic acid molecules. This includes ensuring that reporting requirements are fulfilled. The investigator is accountable for any reporting lapses.
Dual use research and research of concern
Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) is life sciences research that, based on current understanding, can be reasonably anticipated to provide knowledge, information, products, or technologies that could be directly misapplied to pose a significant threat with broad potential consequences to public health and safety, agricultural crops and other plants, animals, the environment, materiel, or national security.
Source page updated August 28, 2026: COGR infographic added.