IMPORTANT UPDATE
A new executive order released last week (May 5, 2025) requires federal agencies to develop a new policy on DURC-related research.
Therefore, we will cancel the town hall originally scheduled for May 13, 2025, and reschedule when we have the updated policy in place. Also, we have updated our webpage about the executive order and how it will impact USC’s research community (http://ehs.usc.edu/research/bio/dual-research-of-concern-durc/).
Please reach out to biosafety@usc.edu if you have any questions.
Learn About Key DURC/PEPP Policy Updates at one of the following Zoom presentations:
April 29th at 12:00 PM https://usc.zoom.us/j/95902520443?pwd=5c6LoKIzhh4Rge7eig5UIqzBTwOmV1.1May 13th at 12:00 PM https://usc.zoom.us/j/92272817468?pwd=MDtCdEFFd2WfG1b7XZz4JPtIdKVHic.1
What is the Policy?
This policy addresses the oversight of research on biological agents and toxins that, when enhanced, have the potential to pose risks to public health, agriculture, food security, economic security, or national security. Additionally, it mandates the review of life sciences research proposed for federal funding that may be reasonably anticipated to involve the creation, transfer, or use of pathogens with enhanced pandemic potential (PEPPs)
Who does this policy affect?
This updated policy may affect researchers that conduct research using recombinant DNA methods, Risk group 2 or 3 agents, or certain biological toxins.
What do I need to do?
EH&S Biosafety team, in collaboration with USC partners, has released guidelines to ensure compliance with the updated DURC policy. Read more on USC EH&S’ DURC webpage. Additionally, we invite you to attend one of our upcoming Zoom sessions to gain insights into the current policy, its updates, and the measures that USC has implemented to maintain compliance.