CU Boulder is a research institution devoted to making fundamental discoveries in the life sciences, the improvement of human and animal health, and the training of future generations of researchers in biomedical and field research. Our world-renowned faculty maintains a reputation for excellence in research, creative work and teaching across 150 academic fields. From hands-on learning to close connections with dedicated faculty, CU Boulder prepares students to become leaders within Colorado and throughout the world.
The University shares the concerns of those interested in the welfare of animals. Individuals at the University are committed to caring for animals in a respectful, professional and humane manner during the course of research and teaching projects.
The CU Boulder animal program is composed of two main components: The Office of Animal Resources (OAR) and the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Trained and qualified members of the veterinary and animal care staff in OAR are charged with overseeing the daily animal health care and husbandry. The IACUC–which includes members of the public–oversees all proposals for activities involving the use of laboratory animals and evaluates the Institute’s animal program, procedures and facilities to ensure that they are consistent with all regulations and contemporary practice standards including:
- The federal Animal Welfare Act and Regulations (AWR) regulated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- U.S. Government Principles for the Utilization and Care of Vertebrate Animals Used in Testing, Research, and Training
- The Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals
- (PHS Policy) regulated by the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW)
- The National Research Council’s (NRC) Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (the Guide)
- AAALAC International
