The IACUC is responsible for oversight of the animal care and use program and its components as described in the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Policy) and the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide ). Its oversight functions include an ongoing assessment of animal care and use. IACUC responsibilities include: Reviewing the institution’s program for the humane care and use of animals; Inspecting the institution’s animal facilities; Preparing reports to the Institutional Official (IO) of the IACUC evaluations; Reviewing animal welfare concerns; Making recommendations to the IO on any aspect of the animal program, facilities, or personnel training; Reviewing and approving, those components of PHS conducted or supported activities related to the care and use of animals; Reviewing and approving, proposed significant changes to the use of animals in ongoing activities; and is authorized to suspend an activity involving animals.
The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is responsible for the Animal Care and Use Program at the University of Maine at Augusta. The IACUC reviews and oversees all animal use related to research, teaching, or testing activities to ensure the activities are conducted in compliance with all state and federal regulations and that the treatment of animals is ethical. The IACUC also serves as a resource for investigators, faculty, research staff, and students in planning and conducting animal research pursuant to the highest scientific and humane standards. If you are considering using animals in any activity at the University, please contact the IACUC for guidance.