Ethical concerns surrounding research utilizing human embryonic stem cells have necessitated regulations to guide the acceptable use of these materials. The National Academy of Sciences and the State of New Jersey require the formation of an Embryonic Stem Cell Research Oversight (ESCRO) Committee and approval prior to beginning work.

Currently, human embryonic stem cell procedures are submitted as part of the IBC protocol form and sent to ESCRO for review. Since all research with human materials must be reviewed by the IBC, this allows for a streamlined application process.

For questions regarding ESCRO, please contact biosafety@ipo.rutgers.edu.