What is an IACUC?
According to U.S. federal law, institutions that use laboratory animals for research or instructional purposes must establish an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to oversee and evaluate all aspects of the institution’s animal care and use program.
How long is a protocol approval good for?
Protocol approval is good for three years from the date that it was approved.
What do I do if my protocol expires or is withdrawn from consideration?
A protocol will expire if the PI does not submit a 3-year review. If the PI returns their renewal form after the expiration date, the form cannot be accepted. A new Animal Protocol Form will need to be submitted for review and approval by the IACUC Committee. A protocol will be withdrawn from consideration either at the PI’s request or if the PI fails to respond to requests for additional information. In either case, a new Animal Protocol Form will need to be submitted for review and approval by the IACUC Committee.
How could my protocol expire or be withdrawn from consideration?
A protocol will expire if the PI does not return his/her Animal Protocol Continuing Review form. If the PI returns his/her continuing review form after the expiration date, form cannot be accepted. A new Animal Protocol Form will need to be submitted for review and approval by the IACUC Committee. A protocol will be withdrawn from consideration either at the PI’s request or if the PI fails to respond to additional information. In either case, a new Animal Protocol Form will need to be submitted for review and approval by the IACUC Committee.
What if I don’t want to renew my protocol?
You can let the protocol naturally expire or please contact Cynthia Tralmer so she can close the protocol.
When should I report changes or modifications to my protocol?
By federal law and University Policy, PIs are required to notify the committee of any changes made to any currently active protocol. Typical changes may include, project personnel, numbers and species of animals, modifications to the experimental methods or procedures, special requirements for animal husbandry, and housing, etc.
Must I complete the Animal Protocol Form if I use snails, shrimp, bees, worms, coral, or microorganisms in my research to teaching/instruction activities?
No. You need only submit an Animal Protocol Form if you use animals that have a vertebrae (backbones).
If I received word that my protocol was approved, when can I start my protocol?
You may start using animals immediately if you have been granted full approval.
Must I have an approved protocol before I can order or house animals at the Animal Care Facility?
Yes, only PIs who have an approved protocol can place animal orders and/or house animals at these facilities.
I am in a rush to do my animal work. Can my new protocol be granted preapproval status?
No. Animal work cannot begin until committee approval is granted. All protocol applications are required to undergo full committee review before a decision is rendered.