February 16, 2023

IFBA Announces NEW Professional Certification in Cyberbiosecurity

On 15 February 2023, the International Federation of Biosafety Associations (IFBA) launched their new Professional Certification in Cyberbiosecurity which identifies individuals with demonstrated competencies in the mitigation of cybersecurity risks within biological laboratories. This includes Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) risks in order to protect sensitive biological research, data, databases, and laboratory facilities and equipment against illicit or unauthorized access, theft, tampering, or other forms of misuse. 


The frequency of cyber attacks has steadily increased worldwide with biotechnology, life sciences and healthcare organizations seen as vulnerable targets. Malicious exploitation of cyber vulnerabilities in these sectors can not only result in data theft but also negatively impact the health, safety and security of laboratory workers and the surrounding community. In light of these growing risks, cyberbiosecurity has emerged as a rapidly evolving multidisciplinary field at the convergence of the biological and IT worlds, requiring an understanding of both disciplines. In today’s technology dependent world, individuals working in and around biological laboratories need to be well versed in the basic fundamentals of biosecurity, physical security and cybersecurity.


Click here to learn more about the Cyberbiosecurity exam content and access the study guide. Additionally, click here to learn more about IFBA’s other professional certifications. 


HSP is proud to have supported the development of this professional certification and we encourage our partners around the globe to pursue this unique opportunity to demonstrate competency in the emerging field of cyberbiosecurity. If you have any questions about the IFBA Cyberbiosecurity Certification, please contact Jacob May, HSP Program and Cybersecurity Manager (jacob@healthsecuritypartners.org) with your inquiries.