Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about IACUC Protocol

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about IACUC Protocol

 

Does my teaching/research activity require IACUC review?

All vertebrate animal use, including field studies, conducted by University faculty, students, or staff, or supported by University funds, must be reviewed and approved by the Institutional Animal Use and Care Committee (IACUC) prior to the initiation of that activity, regardless of where it will be performed.

The use of invertebrates does not require IACUC review.

How long does it take for the IACUC to respond to a protocol?

Typically, animal use protocols (AUPs) are reviewed within 12 days of submission. The total length of review may vary and ultimately depends on the type of feedback and discussion required during the evaluation process.

If approved, how long does an IACUC protocol last?

AUPs must be renewed annually and may only remain active for a maximum of three years (i.e., they may be renewed a maximum of two times).

Who can serve as a PI?

Only Elon faculty may serve as a principal investigator (PI) on an IACUC-approved research protocol. Undergraduate research applications must be submitted by the faculty member(s) supervising the research project.

What is the process for submitting an AUP?

Faculty members must complete the relevant AUP (see sidebar of this page) and email the form to the Chair of the IACUC.

All PIs that submit protocols for IACUC review must also submit documentation demonstrating that they have passed the CITI training for ethics related to Animal Use and Care. All participants listed on an AUP must receive sufficient training in all relevant procedures to ensure that animals are properly cared for and maintained, and should be sufficiently familiar with Guide, AWR, PHS, and IACUC policies (see below).

What resources does the IACUC recommend for researchers?

The IACUC recommends that researchers be familiar with the following guides:

• Guide: Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide)
• AWR: Animal Welfare Regulations Title 9 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Subchapter A, “Animal Welfare”, Parts 1-3 (AWR)
• PHS: Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (PHS Policy)

Studies of wild animals in natural settings should be conducted in accordance with the following:

• Acceptable Field Methods in Mammalogy
• Guidelines for the Capture, Handling, and Care of Mammals
• Guidelines for Use of Fish in Field Research
• Guidelines for Use of Live Amphibians and Reptiles in Field Research
• Guidelines to the Use of Wild Birds in Research

For any further questions, please email the Chair of the IACUC.