What is an IACUC?

Animal research is critical to advancing scientific knowledge biology and behavior and to informing clinical practice and public health policy.  Research with nonhuman animals is a highly regulated enterprise, with a system of laws, regulations and policies, at the federal, state, and local levels. The  Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) plays a central role in ensuring that animal research conducted at their institution is in compliance with pertinent regulations and policies. This blog post will discuss the IACUC's role in animal research and the importance of PRIM&R’s IACUC Core Training. 

What is an IACUC? 

 IACUC is an independent committee responsible for reviewing and approving animal research protocols. The volunteer committee is comprised of scientists, veterinarians, and community members. By law, all research conducted at institutions that receive federal funding must have an IACUC approve proposed research. 

Why is the IACUC Important? 

The IACUC's oversight plays a crucial role in ensuring that responsible animal research. The committee ensures that animals used are treated humanely and that the research is necessary, scientifically valid, and conducted in a way that minimizes pain and distress to the animals. 

2023 PRIM&R IACUC Core Training  

PRIM&R IACUC Core Training is an online training program that combines two of our most popular courses for those working in oversight of research with animals, IACUC Fundamentals and Essentials of IACUC Administration, presented live in a convenient format for remote learning. Participants are welcome to attend one or both courses. 
 
Course attendees will also have access to an exclusive platform on the PRIM&R Online Community for additional discussion and networking. 
 
Format 
Each course will be presented as two 3-hour sessions during consecutive weeks, and with one supplementary intersession to provide additional opportunities for attendees and speakers to discuss, interact, and network. 
 
Registration Closed for Course 1
Course 1: IACUC Fundamentals 

Course 2 Registration Open Until April 18 
Course 2: Essentials of IACUC Administration 
This program is ideal for animal care and use program personnel who are familiar with basic IACUC functions, as well as more experienced IACUC administrators and staff. Topics covered include the key components of an IACUC program; the responsibilities of IACUC administrators; strategies for creating and maintaining a culture of compliance; and best practices to ensure that IACUC administrators and their staff provide the support necessary to develop and continually strengthen both the IACUC and the broader animal care and use program. 
 
Speakers:

• Jennifer Freeling Iwamoto, DVM, CPIA
  Co-Director (Interim), Review Scientist, Office of Animal Welfare, University of Washington  
• Trina M. Smith, MS, BS, CPIA
  Animal Care and Use Program Officer, Office of Research Compliance, Mississippi State University 

Dates:

• Session 1: Wednesday April 19, 1–3 PM ET
• Learning Lab: Friday, April 21, 12–1 PM ET
• Session 2: Wednesday, April 26 1–3 PM ET

Continuing Education 
Course participants who hold the Certified Professional in IACUC Administration (CPIA®) credential may apply 4 continuing education credits towards CPIA® recertification credit for each course in the IACUC Core Training. Learn More