Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP)
A new policy and implementation guidance for research involving Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP) was released by the Federal Government in May 2024. This new U.S. Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential will supersede the 2012 and 2014 DURC Policies and the 2017 HHS P3CO Framework, beginning on May 6, 2025.
The new policy is a unified federal oversight framework for the oversight of certain types of federally funded life sciences research involving biological agents and toxins. This policy addresses 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.
Effective May 1, 2025, The University of Iowa will adopt the United States Government Policy for Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (“USG DURC/PEPP Policy”) and follow the USG Implementation Guidance for identification, review, and oversight of life sciences research that is within Category 1 and Category 2 as defined by that policy. See links below for details.
Contact information and areas of expertise can be found on the Contact Us page.
Training
Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens of Enhanced Pandemic Potential - W527BO
- This course is required initially and recommended annually for the indicated audience.
- Audience: Principal Investigators and research staff conducting life sciences research that may be within the scope of the USG DURC/PEPP Policy. Also, any committee member of the Institutional Review Entity.
For further training and registration information go to EHS Safety Training.