Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

Research Involving the Use of Laboratory Animals

IACUC Process in a Nutshell

In conjunction with its instruction and research missions, the University at Albany acquires, maintains, and utilizes a number of species of animals. Although state and federal compliance requirements pertain specifically to living vertebrate animals, the University is committed to the humane care and use of all non-human species in all research and educational activities conducted under its auspices.

Any project or activity involving animals must have as its purpose the expansion of scientific knowledge and professional skills and must meet high standards of scientific merit and performance.

With respect to animal care and use the University accepts the responsibility for compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations (see Laboratory Animal Research Regulations links).

The University at Albany has established an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), that is qualified through the experience and expertise of its members to oversee the institution's animal program, facilities, and procedures.

Federal and state regulations, as well as university policy, require IACUC review prior to conducting research involving animals. These regulations pertain to any research conducted by anyone affiliated with the university. This includes not only sponsored research, but also theses, dissertations, and class projects. Research involving animals conducted by any faculty, staff, or student under the auspices of the University at Albany must be reviewed by the IACUC.

It is the responsibility of the Investigator to submit the proposed research to the IACUC for approval before the research has begun. You may not start your research until your protocol has been reviewed and approved by the IACUC.

The IACUC requires all individuals listed on an IACUC protocol to complete the required IACUC Training before approval will be granted.

Review the Investigator’s Handbook: Laboratory Animals Research/IACUC to learn:

• Personnel Qualifications and Training
• Terms and Concepts
• Program of Animal Care and Use
• Institutional Official
• Animal Welfare Assurance
• The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
• IACUC Procedures
• Veterinary Care
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Animal Facilities and Husbandry

Use only Current IACUC Forms dated 7/6/06 or later .  Applications submitted on the incorrect forms will be returned without review by the IACUC.

Prepare and submit the required number of copies of the completed application to the Office of Research Compliance, MSC 312.

The Investigator will receive notification of receipt and/or review from the ORC 7-14 days after submission. The official IACUC letter of approval will follow pending clarification by the Investigator of any issues, as requested by the IACUC.

Any and all changes to an approved protocol must first be reviewed and approved by the IACUC. Use a Modification Request Form - IACUC to submit any modifications to the approved protocol.

Approvals are usually valid for 1 year. Before the approval term expires, submit a Continuation Request Form - IACUC or Closure Request Form - IACUC to the IACUC.

Retain IACUC records and accompanying documentation for at least 3 years from the date the research was completed.

For more details, see the Investigator’s Handbook: Laboratory Animals Research/IACUC.

Date: 8.22.2007