International Course on Principles of Biosafety 2025

In recent years, the approach to biorisk management has evolved significantly. The focus has shifted from checking compliance with prescribed requirements to implementing management systems with protection measures designed in relation to the risks identified through detailed assessments.

As a result, professionals responsible for biorisk management face increasingly complex and diverse challenges. Most learn their job “on the job” and can only build expertise by attending meetings and courses. 

This international course provides a comprehensive review of the essential elements of biorisk management, strengthening biosafety practitioners to build their own approach.

Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Identify potential hazardous biological materials and assess their associated risks.

• Select appropriate measures to minimise risk and to protect against or prevent exposure.

• Recognise applicable legal requirements and prepare the necessary documents for authorisations.

• Understand how to run a biorisk management programme.

The course will focus on examples with microorganisms in laboratories, but also genetically modified plants and animals, as well as large-scale activities. View the full programme.

Who should attend?

This course is designed for professionals responsible for biorisk management, such as scientific researchers and laboratory directors. As the course covers all essential elements of biorisk management, biosafety professionals may also find it a useful refresher and an opportunity to exchange experiences and knowledge.

Participants should have a bachelor's degree in a life science discipline and be familiar with basic biological concepts to benefit fully from this course.

This international course is organised by the Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Antwerp, University of Ghent, University of Namur, Free University of Brussels, Sciensano and Perseus BVBA.

Contact

If you have any questions or remarks, please send an e-mail to pobiosafety@gmail.com.