Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
Various federal agencies and private research foundations have regulations pertaining to the use of vertebrate animals in research. Investigators must obtain Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) approval prior to using vertebrate animals in research or teaching and must adhere to the approved protocol in carrying out their activities.
The Office of Research Safety (ORS) provides administrative support to the IACUC, sharing responsibility for ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and that the use of animals in research projects are necessary and that alternatives to the use of live animals have been considered.
The Three R's
The George Washington University (GW) Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is guided by the latest literature and the three “R” principles:
- reducing the number of animals used in research projects;
- refining procedures to minimize any negative impacts on animals; and
- replacing animals with non-animal alternatives whenever possible.
GW’s animal care program is fully accredited by the Association for the Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC) with continuous accreditation since April 1974.
ORS and its IACUC specialist works closely with the Office of Animal Research (OAR) to support the highest standards of humane care and use of laboratory animals for research and teaching purposes and assures compliance with university and federal guidelines.
The George Washington University (GW) Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) investigates all concerns regarding the care and treatment of animals used in research or teaching at the university. To report a concern anonymously, contact GW’s Compliance Help & Referral Line at 1-888-508-5275.