Frequent training is necessary for anyone involved in animal research or handling, whether a principal investigator, laboratory technician, veterinarian, or research staff member.
In addition to being a regulatory requirement, IACUC training can help improve the quality of animal research by providing knowledge and skills needed to conduct work safely, ethically, and effectively. Training ensures that animal research is conducted in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations, which protect both animals and researchers.
Keeping up with changes in regulations on your own can be burdensome on top of other job requirements. If you are new to the field, it can be overwhelming. Training courses regularly cover topics such as animal welfare, animal behavior, handling and husbandry techniques, pain management, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding animal research.