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National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center

The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center facility will provide the nation with a much needed biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) laboratory space for biological threat characterization and bioforensic research.

The programs conducted at NBACC provide:

Critical knowledge related to infectious properties and characteristics of biological threat agents
Assessment of risks from terrorist attack using biological agents
Forensic analyses to support federal law enforcement
Development of new assays to rapidly identify biological agents on criminal evidence

Primary Research Areas

Biological Threat Characterization Center (BTCC) conducts studies and laboratory experiments to

better understand current and future biological threats,
assess vulnerabilities to the nation, and
determine potential impacts to guide the development of countermeasures against these threats.

As mandated by Presidential Directive “Biodefense for the 21st Century,” the BTCC will prepare a biennial risk assessment report comparing the risk from various biothreat agents.

National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC) conducts bioforensic analysis of evidence from biocrimes and terrorism to

attain a “biological fingerprint” to identify perpetrators and
determine the origin and method of attack.

NBFAC is designated in “Biodefense for the 21st Century,” to be the lead federal facility to conduct and facilitate the technical forensic analysis and interpretation of materials recovered following a biological attack in support of the appropriate lead federal agency.

Biodefense Knowledge Center (BKC) supports collaboration and data sharing among policy makers, scientists, first responders, and other stakeholders requiring timely and authoritative biodefense information.

About the Facility

The gross space, or entire footprint of the facility, is expected to be about 160,000 square feet. This includes administrative areas, BSL- 2, 3, and 4 laboratory space, air-handling equipment space, security controls, and other supporting features. NBACC expects to employ 120 researchers and support staff.

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