The Tufts New England Regional Biosafety Laboratory (RBL) is a 41,000 square foot resource available to researchers in industry, academia, government and not-for-profit, dedicated to the study of existing and emerging infectious diseases, toxin-mediated diseases and medical countermeasures important to biodefense. BSL-2 and BSL-3 lab space with access to state-of-the art equipment is available to researchers on a monthly/annual basis – or studies may be conducted by experienced RBL personnel on a fee-for-service basis.
Investigators in academia, not-for-profit organizations, industry, and government studying biodefense and emerging infectious diseases may request the use of the biocontainment laboratories at the RBL. Information for investigators about research and collaborative possibilities with the Cummings School and the RBL, including grant-writing support, can be found on the Information for Researchers Page. Information on BSL-3 pathogens and related Containment Recommendations from the Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) 5th Edition are also available.
The RBL’s capabilities include laboratories for work with biosafety level 2 and 3 agents, including select agents. In addition to BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratory suites, the facility features an ABSL-3 vivarium, aerobiology suite, and insectary.
Investigators at the RBL, which include members of Tufts Cummings School Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, are experienced in many areas of research including the biology, transmission, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious and toxin-mediated diseases associated with NIAID priority pathogens, food and waterborne illnesses, and food and water security. The RBL is available as a resource to investigators from other academic institutions, not-for-profits and the private sector, in New England and nationwide.
The Cummings School considers the Tufts New England RBL one of its key research resources, and has welcomed community perspectives and dialogue as the laboratory and its programs have developed. The FAQ and Safety and Security pages have additional information, and our contact information is available for those with any questions.