MISSION

OVERVIEW

Our overall mission complements Federal Homeland Defense initiatives by coordinating multidisciplinary biodefense research and translating this research from the bench to the field. The objectives of the USF CBD are to:

1) Develop innovative rapid procedures that would allow the early
detection, recognition and characterization of agents suggestive of a bioterrorism attack or infectious disease outbreak.
2) Provide outside agencies and companies a testing facility for
independent evaluation of novel procedures for the detection,
characterization and decontamination of pathogens.
3) Enhance and further develop biosensors, diagnostic protocols,
therapeutic drugs and immune-stimulators and vaccines.
4) Provide diagnostic capabilities in basic and applied research for NIH and CDC biothreat category A-C agents including influenza and emerging diseases.
5) Serve as a resource for improving regional and global response to the threat of bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases.
6) Provide instruction and demonstration on the proper environmental
sample collection and transportation procedures for suspected biological agents as required by the Florida Department of Health Laboratories.
7) Expand research capabilities in the state of Florida through
solicitation of proposals and applications on topics related to biodefense
and emerging infections.
8) Translate academic research and technology development into
educational and outreach programs directed at professionals responsible
for public health and safety and to the civilian population of the U.S.
9) Develop just-in-time educational materials that address current
situations in the areas of bioterrorism, emerging infections and other disaster situations.
10) Train healthcare professionals, first responders, law enforcement
officers, government officials and other individuals who would be involved in emergency preparedness or in a potential bioterrorism or mass casualty event