Great Eastern's IACUC fulfills the composition requirements set forth in the PHS Policy at IV.A.3.b. The goal of the University's animal care and use program is to ensure that all animal research is conducted in compliance with all pertinent federal regulations. This requires the cooperation of all of the program participants, from the Institutional Official (IO), to researchers, to the IACUC, to the veterinarian, to animal caretakers, as well as to others. Regarding SOCRATES' concerns about the experience and expertise of the IACUC members, the IO chose the current members because they were seen as assets to the dynamic process involved in the operation of the animal welfare program, and because they are committed to fulfilling the obligations of IACUC membership.
The federal regulations stipulate that the IACUC as a whole must be qualified through the experience and expertise of its members. The IACUC must include a diverse membership, to ensure that animal welfare is considered by persons with different backgrounds and points of view. Therefore, while each member may lack experience or expertise in a particular area, collectively they form a body capable of effectively overseeing the institution's animal program, facilities, and procedures. All members bring their unique knowledge and opinions to the Committee. This diversity allows an evaluation of the animal care and use program from different perspectives. If necessary, the AWA regulations allow the IACUC to invite consultants to assist in the review of complex issues arising out of its review of proposed activities. IACUC members should use their professional judgment to interpret the guidelines in a way that ensures compliance and animal well-being while allowing quality research to take place.
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