About IACUC

Elon University is committed to the ethical and responsible use of animals in research and teaching. Respectful treatment and proper care of animals are both an ethical obligation and a scientific necessity, supporting the advancement of knowledge and education.

To ensure these standards, Elon maintains an Animal Care and Use Program overseen by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). The IACUC is appointed by the Institutional Official, Dr. Eric Hall, Assistant Provost for Scholarship and Creative Activity. The IACUC evaluates research protocols, facilities, and care procedures to confirm compliance with university policy and federal regulations.

The IACUC includes at least seven members, representing diverse expertise and perspectives:

  • A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with training in laboratory animal science and medicine.
  • A faculty scientist experienced in animal research.
  • A community member unaffiliated with Elon University.
  • A faculty member from a nonscientific discipline.
  • A laboratory manager from Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, who also serves on the campus Safety Committee.
  • Two additional faculty scientists from the School of Health Sciences or from Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Exercise Science, or Psychology.

The IACUC has authority to:

  • review and approve the pedagogical and/or scientific merit of proposed animal research
  • review, approve, or require modification in order to secure approval, or withhold approval of proposed research or teaching using animals,
  • review the facilities and program for animal care and use, including laboratories outside of animal facilities where procedures are performed,
  • review and, if warranted, investigate concerns involving the care and use of animals,
  • prepare written reports of its evaluations,
  • make recommendations to the Institutional Official concerning any aspect of the animal care and use program, and
  • suspend any activity involving animals that does not conform to the Guide, AWR, PHS policy, and/or Elon University IACUC Policies.

Concerns about animal welfare can be reported to the Chair of the IACUC, or any member of the committee.