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  • 1.  Commercial/Private IACUC

    Posted 06-09-2022 11:25
    Hi everyone,

    Does anyone know of a commercial or private IACUC? Is this even a thing? Our institution has some students wanting to conduct research with animals, but we do not have an IACUC. Any suggestions?

    Thank you all!

    April

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    April Nelson, M.S., CIP
    IRB Associate Director
    The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
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  • 2.  RE: Commercial/Private IACUC

    SUPERSTAR CONTRIBUTOR
    Posted 06-09-2022 14:44
    Hi April,

    I am not aware of a commercial/private IACUC.  I like the idea, tho am not sure how easily it could be implemented--since someone at your institution would still need to be appointed as an Institutional Official, and the CEO (or IO, if so-designated) is required to appoint the IACUC members.  However, i think there are many CPIAs out there who accept consultation positions to help advise IACUCs on requirements.

    I'm guessing CSPP doesn't have its own animal facility, so one question to tackle is what types of animals and how will they be obtained and maintained.  Depending on the type of animals or source of funding, you may first need to register with the USDA and file an Animal Welfare Assurance with OLAW.

    If the animal use will take place at another institution, their IACUC could review the activities.

    Are they just observing wild animals?  You may want EHS involvement, but if the environment and animals aren't being manipulated, you're in the clear IACUC-wise.

    Cheers,
    Cheryl

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    Cheryl Cheney, CPIA
    IACUC Coordinator/Compliance Specialist
    Biogen
    Cambridge, MA
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Commercial/Private IACUC

    RISING STAR CONTRIBUTOR
    Posted 06-09-2022 18:21
    Hi April,
    While IRB's do often have independent/commercial IRB's, I have never heard of a commercial IACUC.  I think the best bet is to establish a collaboration with a neighboring institution and have students conduct their animal research there. In order to invest in the regulatory framework and requirements of animal research, I would imagine you would want a strong faculty interest/research agenda in this area. You will not need/or be able to get a federally assured IACUC unless you have federal funding.

    Some newer institutions create an informal IACUC committee for animals used in teaching at smaller institutions that don't have federal funding for animal research.  Maybe it is time to begin an exploratory committee?
    Best wishes,
    Kris

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    Kris A. Monahan, Ph.D.
    Director Sponsored Projects and Research Compliance
    Providence College
    Providence, RI
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Commercial/Private IACUC

    Posted 06-14-2022 07:58
    Hello April,

    I too am not aware of a commercial/private fee for service IACUC.  You can reach out to the USDA representative for your area to assist you in finding one (if they exist).  Some universities have provided fee for service IACUC oversight.  The organization using animals in teaching, testing, or research must be within an area that allows access to the facility for an initial inspection, semi-annual inspections, and vet visits as required.   The Animal Welfare Assurance is revised to include this organization, along with other policies/procedures, etc.  Should you go this route you would want to research out to OLAW and the USDA for guidance.

    Best,
    Julia

    ------------------------------
    Julia A. Mays
    Associate Director Research Compliance
    Office of Research and Innovation
    1903 W. Michigan Avenue MS 5456
    251W Walwood Hall
    Kalamazoo, MI  49008-5456
    Phone: 269-387-8293
    Fax: 269-387-8276
    julia.mays@wmich.edu
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    Original Message


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