The University of Houston (UH) upholds the highest standards for animal care and use within its research programs. Driven by a commitment to ethical practices and regulatory compliance, UH has established comprehensive animal care programs rigorously overseen by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). This committee is fundamental in evaluating and supervising all facets of the institution’s animal care and use program, ensuring humane treatment and adherence to all guidelines.
The Three Pillars of Animal Care Excellence at UH
The animal care and use program at the University of Houston is structured around three interconnected components, working in concert to guarantee the well-being of animals involved in research and the strict adherence to all relevant regulations and policies. These pillars ensure a robust and ethical framework for animal research at UH.
Institutional Official (IO): Leadership and Oversight
The ultimate responsibility for the entire animal care and use program is held by the University Chancellor/President, a responsibility that is delegated to the Vice Chancellor/Vice President for Research. This senior leader serves as the Institutional Official (IO), a position formally defined by federal law and the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. The IO provides leadership and oversight, ensuring the program’s effectiveness and ethical operation at the highest level. Key personnel like the Attending Veterinarian and the Executive Director of Research Integrity and Oversight report directly to the IO.
Attending Veterinarian (AV): Championing Animal Well-being
The Attending Veterinarian (AV) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health and well-being of all animals utilized in research, teaching, testing, and production at the University of Houston. This responsibility encompasses continuous monitoring and promotion of animal well-being throughout all stages of animal use. The AV at UH also serves as the Executive Director of Animal Care Operations, with broad oversight of veterinary care, animal housing, and husbandry practices, all aimed at upholding the highest standards of care and ethics.
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC): Rigorous Program Oversight
The IACUC is the cornerstone of regulatory and ethical oversight for the animal care and use program. Appointed by the IO, the committee comprises a diverse group of members, including a veterinarian, experienced scientists, a non-scientist, and a community member unaffiliated with the University. The IACUC’s federally mandated responsibilities are extensive, including thorough review of research protocols involving vertebrate animals, semi-annual inspections of animal facilities and program review, verification of personnel training, and investigation and reporting of any instances of noncompliance.
Submitting a Protocol for Animal Use
For researchers and educators intending to utilize vertebrate animals in research or teaching activities at the University of Houston, submitting a protocol to the IACUC is a mandatory step. It is imperative to understand that no animal procurement or experimentation can commence without obtaining formal written approval from the IACUC beforehand. The submission and review process is facilitated through the ICON online system, accessible via the IACUC Submission portal. This streamlined system ensures efficient processing and review of all animal care and use protocols.
Contact the IACUC Office
For any inquiries or further information regarding animal care programs at the University of Houston or the IACUC processes, please do not hesitate to reach out to the IACUC office.
Phone: (713) 743-5671
Email: [email protected]
The University of Houston is dedicated to ensuring the ethical and responsible use of animals in research, and the IACUC is a vital component of this commitment.
