Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL)

Overview of Services

The Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) at UTHSC is part of a National Institute of Health network of national facilities devoted to research on the discovery and development of drugs, vaccines and diagnostics to protect the general population from emerging infectious diseases. Before work can be initiated in the RBL, interested researchers should contact Drs. Colleen Jonsson or Elizabeth Fitzpatrick to discuss how the RBL might facilitate your research or to discuss your project and how you can gain independent access to the facility (which requires a Department of Justice security clearance). All personnel, once approved by the Laboratory Directors, are trained prior to gaining access to or performing work in the facility. All appropriate Select Agent registration, approval, and permits must be completed before a Select Agent can be transferred to UTHSC, or before an investigator can begin work in the RBL with that agent. Refresher training is required for all RBL users at least annually.

The RBL Service Units unit offers a wide array of services in support of (1) testing the toxicity and efficacy of antivirals and vaccines in small animals of infectious diseases, (2) in vitro screening of small molecules for drug discovery and (3) pathogen discovery in patient or environmental samples. Additionally, the RBL offers equipment within BSL2 and BSL3 laboratories in support of basic and translational research. The RBL has an outstanding, highly experienced staff available to provide Users training on equipment, facility use and to provide support for studies. Please contact the RBL Directors, or Program Manager for questions about your next study!

Leadership

Colleen B. Jonsson, Ph.D. 

Location and hours of operation

Contacts