Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

Purpose

The IACUC is responsible for ensuring the humane care and use of animal subjects in all research conducted by an employee or student of the University and in all research conducted at the University. The IACUC operates in compliance with federal animal welfare regulations, which sets standards of animal care and defines the IACUC's responsibilities, which include:

  • Review research protocols that use animal subjects. The IACUC has the authority to review and approve, require modifications to secure approval, or disapprove proposed animal use protocols. Download the IACUC Protocol Form
  • Conduct regular inspections of facilities and animal use areas to ensure compliance with standards set forth in the animal welfare regulations.
  • Maintain a mechanism for the receipt and review of concerns involving the care and use of animals at the university.
  • Suspend or terminate approval of activities not being conducted in accordance with an approved protocol or that has been associated with unexpected harm to animals.
  • Ensure that all scientists, research technicians, animal technicians, and other personnel involved in animal care, treatment, and use are qualified to perform their duties.

IACUC policy

CFR Title 9, Chapter 1, Subpart A - Animal Welfare

Membership

The IACUC is comprised of at least 5 members that meet specific criteria described in federal regulations, including an individual with scientific experience, a veterinarian with designated program responsibilities, a non-scientist and a non-affiliated individual representing community interests. 

Proposals approved by the IACUC may be subject to further review and approval by the Institutional Officer. However, no officials of the university may approve animal subjects use (i.e., authorize it to proceed) that has not been approved by the IACUC.

The current co-chairs of IACUC are Dustin Reichard and Eric Gangloff. All questions for the committee should be sent to iacuc@owu.edu.

Event Reporting

Anyone that thinks they have observed the improper use of vertebrate animals for research or teaching at OWU is strongly encouraged to submit a description of the event to the IACUC for review. Examples include individuals conducting research or teaching with vertebrates without the approval of the IACUC or using techniques and procedures that are inconsistent with any prior approvals from the IACUC or animal welfare regulations.

To submit a report anonymously, please use the submission form. Alternatively, you may email your report to the committee.