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Plant and Animal Agrosecurity Research Facility

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PAAR - Plant and Animal Agrosecurity Research Facility

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Enhancing Ohio’s Food Safety and Security

The Plant and Animal Agrosecurity Research (PAAR) Facility is a state-of-the-art biocontainment building designed to support critical research on infectious diseases that threaten both plant and animal health. As mandated by federal law, PAAR enables work with high-risk organisms classified under Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3 and BSL-3 Ag)—pathogens that could cause serious harm to agriculture and the economy if released.

A Unique Asset in Ohio and the Nation

PAAR is the only facility in Ohio and one of only a handful in the United States with a dual mission to conduct both plant and animal research at the BSL-3 and BSL-3 Ag levels. While there are several other U.S. facilities that are designated for BSL-3 Ag animal research, PAAR stands out for its integrated approach.

Although The Ohio State University operates BSL-3 labs on its Columbus campus, PAAR is the first BSL-3 facility on the CFAES Wooster campus and the university’s first BSL-3 Ag facility.

Driving Innovation in Agricultural Research

PAAR strengthens the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences’ (CFAES) internationally recognized research programs in infectious diseases. It plays a vital role in protecting Ohio’s $90+ billion agricultural industry—the state’s largest economic sector—by enabling:

  • Development of advanced diagnostic tools
  • Creation of new treatments and vaccines
  • Proactive responses to emerging threats from diseases and pests

The facility also enhances the ability of The Ohio State University to attract top-tier faculty, competitive research grants, and industry partnerships.

PAAR Features

  • 27,537 gross square feet of secure research space
  • Two BSL-3 enhanced laboratories and four BSL-3 Ag animal isolation rooms capable of housing large animals such as cattle and swine
  • Comprehensive support infrastructure including:
    • Office space
    • Locker and changing areas
    • Decontamination and cage-washing zones
    • A necropsy suite for sample collection
  • Specialized laboratory equipment for handling high-risk microorganisms
  • Airtight construction and HEPA-filtered air systems to prevent environmental contamination
  • Full compliance with all federal biosafety regulations for BSL-3 and BSL-3 Ag laboratories

 

     
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