EPRC WHITE PAPER ON H5N1 BIOSECURITY AND DISCLOSURE MECHANISMS FOR PRE-RESEARCH ASSESSEMENTS
This documents outlines an Institutional Risk Assessment Process (IRAP) that proposes a researcher's affadavit of intent to undertake dual use research including
a stated and signed understanding of the
risks associated with said research.
This paper has a special focus on mammalian transmissible H5N1 research, which continues to be prohibted in the United States of America.
In addition, although policy for such disclosure mechanisms have been promised by the National Institutes of Health, they have yet to be released.
This working document - written during the height of the crisis last year - was designed to stimulate discussion and provide a framework for moving forward in the next steps of research risk management.
We are releasing this document to the public to inform a wider audience of the issues and enable greater engagement of all the stakeholders in the global society.
Comments and questions can be sent to:
jtetro@uottawa.ca
WELCOME TO EPRC!
The Emerging Pathogens Research Centre (EPRC) has been created in response to the need to control
Infectious Diseases.
The collaborative research efforts of its members are resulting in new technologies that are currently under development of at the University of Ottawa, affiliated hospital institutes, public labs such as the NRC and Health Canada. Capitalizing on the infrastructure and expertise of its membership, the EPRC will work to address Canada’s public health priorities. These research efforts will establish the University of Ottawa as a key player and position Canada as a global leader in the study, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.
The specific objectives of the Emerging Pathogens Research Group are:
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Advance basic and applied research into microbial pathogenesis and pathogen-host interactions with an aim to controlling infectious diseases.
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Foster education and intellectual outreach in the area of infectious diseases by organizing workshops and seminars.
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Promote visibility of Emerging Pathogens research as key strategic area for the Faculty of Medicine and the University and determine strategic collaborative directions for the future
Beyond the University community, the EPRC will establish itself as a cornerstone of a larger national Centre for Vaccines, an initiative which will involve the University, NRC, and industry partners.
MORE ON EPRC
Vision
A collaborative centre of fundamental and applied scientists leading the path towards a better understanding of the pathogenesis, spread, evolution, management and control of emerging infectious diseases in Canada and worldwide and means by which to translate this understanding into evidence-based policymaking and public outreach and education programs.
Mission
The Emerging Pathogens Research Centre supports the advancement of basic and applied research into microbial pathogenesis and pathogen-host interactions with an aim to prevent and control infectious diseases. This support is manifested through i) integration of research activities and collaborative research projects amongst members and collaborators, both domestic and international; ii) education and training of highly qualified personnel to develop cadre of skilled personnel with strong capabilities in both fundamental and applied research; and iii) promotionof emerging pathogens research as a priority in Canada to improve health and reduce costs.
Current Scope
The Emerging Pathogens research centre focuses on infection models of viruses, bacteria, and prions; innate and adaptive immunity including vaccinology and therapeutic resistance; the support of research programs involving populations and epidemiology, bioinformatics, translational, genomic, evolutionary and systems approaches dealing primarily with (but not exclusively) the nervous, respiratory, circularly, and enteric systems.
Goals
- Research/Teaching Capacity:Developing collaborations to increase research capacity and production of novel, relevant scientific information and effective translation of results through peer-reviewed publication, training of HQP at both the undergraduate and graduate/research level and involvement in policy decision-making
- EPRC Capacity/Sustainability:Increasing EPRC capacity through the development of a Board of Directors, a Scientific Advisory Board, a Management Committee that will be comprised of EPRC members and a full-time director. Sustainability through development of grant proposals, revenue generating activities and fundraising
- KTE:Increased exposure through the development of a communications plan including media relations, a website, and several knowledge translation activities
- Containment Level 3 Laboratory:The high containment lab will be a critical aspect of future development and recognition for the Centre and the University through management and oversight.
Please enjoy this site and if you have any comments or suggestions, please contact our Co-ordinator, Jason Tetro at jtetro@uottawa.ca or call (613) 562-5800 x2387