IACUC Guidance & Policies

The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) requires documentation of animal care procedures and verification of environmental conditions for animals maintained in confined housing conditions. Last update: 06/13/2025

Guidance on the euthanasia of animals used in research.

According to IACUC procedure, animal bites are to be reported immediately to the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, the Environment, Health, & Safety Office, and the appropriate PI and or supervisor. Last update: 06.13.2025

IACUC research personnel are required to complete certain trainings and evaluations prior to engaging in work in the lab. Please read this guidance for more information.

There are various types of projects involving the husbandry and experimental manipulation of vertebrate animals, all of which are subject to review and approval by IACUC. These include but are not limited to the following:

Collaborating institutions involving animal use should have a formal written understanding that addresses the responsibility for offsite animal care and use, animal ownership, and IACUC review and oversight.

The IACUC endorses the application of the 3 Rs ( Reduction, Replacement and Refinement) concept to the minimization of pain and distress in animals.

Any deviations or incidents must be reported to the IACUC within 72 hours of discovery. Animal Welfare concerns should be reported to reportconcern@wm.edu.

Policy regarding VACU and VIMS security and emergency postings on lab doors.

Rationale/Purpose of the Policy: To allow for certain significant changes to be preapproved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and verified by a research veterinarian. This policy will facilitate and speed protocol revisions, improve compliance, and reduce the regulatory burden on principal investigators (PIs).