Recombinant DNA (rDNA) activities conducted by Purdue University investigators or by others at Purdue University facilities are subject to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) "Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant DNA Molecules" regardless of the source of funds that support the activities.

The Purdue University Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) is the campus-based committee that has the responsibility for reviewing and approving all proposals, activities, and experiments involving an organism or product of an organism that presents a risk to humans. This includes, but is not limited to, work with potential pathogens, work with human clinical samples and primary cell lines and work with DNA from pathogenic organisms. Principal investigators (PIs) must submit to the IBC an application to use rDNA and other biohazards in their research. While certain rDNA protocols are exempt from the Guidelines, a determination of this exemption may only be made by the Chair of the IBC. The IBC convenes as a group semi-annually or more frequently as needed to fulfill its responsibilities.

The IBC review is conducted in accordance with the guidance and requirements of NIH, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and Purdue University policies and the Biosafety Manual. All PIs have an obligation to be closely familiar with health and safety guidelines applicable to their work and to adhere to them. Purdue’s Radiological and Environmental Management (REM), the Office of Research Administration (ORA) and the Biosafety Officer work to support the IBC in carrying out its responsibilities.