ABOUT THE UCSF ANIMAL CARE & USE PROGRAM

| About IACUC | LARC | For IACUC Members Only |
| Responsibilities in Research Involving Animal Subjects |

ABOUT THE INSTITUTIONAL ANIMAL CARE AND USE COMMITTEE

Comprised of faculty members, veterinarians, and at least one representative of the public, the IACUC oversees all UCSF research and instruction that involves vertebrate animals, in order to ensure that the highest ethical and animal welfare standards are met.

The IACUC reviews all animal projects for compliance with the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act and Regulations, the NIH Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, the Public Health Service Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and UCSF Policies and Guidelines, and may suspend any activity involving animals which violates approved animal welfare regulations, policies, and procedures.

Twice a year, the IACUC also conducts inspections of all UCSF animal facilities, evaluates all aspects of UCSF’s animal care and use program, and submits reports and recommendations to the Executive Vice Chancellor.

The IACUC coordinates training, compliance and occupational health programs. The IACUC offers standardized introductory training, and customized programs for people who work with animals, and consults with researchers preparing animal studies. IACUC staff also conduct in-lab reviews and compliance audits of ongoing projects, and provide staff support for government (USDA) and campus (IACUC) inspections. The IACUC works with Occupational Health Services to ensure that all individuals with animal contact are trained and monitored for prevention of animal-associated injuries, illnesses and infections.