» Training Resources

Training about animal welfare, regulations, and procedures is required for all persons intending to use animals in research, training, or testing. Training includes both the study of fact-based curriculum as well as demonstrating competency with procedures and techniques.

The IACUC at Chapman asks for specific documentation of investigator training in the protocol application. Investigator training needs to be appropriate, at minimum, to the animal species, the technique(s), the risks posed by the animal usage, and the demands by regulatory authorities. The IACUC recognizes that training comes from many sources, including CITI (see "CITI" tab), AALAS (see the "Related Training Items" tab), conferences, training received from experts (e.g., surgical procedures), and experience at other institutions.

Staff members engaged as animal care providers and research associates must be trained in husbandry, safety, and methods to do their work.  Organizations like PRIM&R, AALAS, AVMA, and scientific professional societies provide educational resources, licenses, and certifications.  Individuals are expected to participate in continuing professional development.

Members of the IACUC obtain training, too.  Topics include a full understanding of their responsibilities, the ins and outs of protocol review, engagement in the overall mission of the animal care and use program, inspecting and evaluating both facilities and the conceptual program, serving as a liaison with the animal research and teaching community, and being an advocate for ethical and responsible conduct in the uses of animals.  References (such as the ILAR Guide, ARENA/OLAW IACUC Guidebook, the AVMA euthanasia guidelines as included in the Forms and Links section), webinars, conferences, and list-serves are utilized.

Please talk with IACUC Staff about your training and how it fits with the aims and objectives of the grant, protocol, and animal welfare concerns. The 3Rs principles of reduce, replace, and refine apply directly to training when using animals in research. Training improves both data reproducibility and animal welfare.

 


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