Vertebrate Animals

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Lehigh University is committed to use of animals in research and teaching in accordance with institutional policies and procedures and federal regulations and guidelines, and in a manner that adheres to the highest ethical standards.

What is essential?

Lehigh University permits research or teaching with live vertebrate animals only when such use of animals is required, and in the case of research, to use the minimum number of animals necessary to obtain valid results. PIs are responsible for ensuring that live vertebrate animals are managed safely, responsibly, and judiciously. PIs are responsible for training and oversight of students and trainees working on research with live vertebrate animals under their supervision.

The University’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) ensures that the use of animals in teaching and research at Lehigh is conducted in accordance with University policies and federal regulations and guidelines, and works to assist faculty whose research and teaching involve live vertebrate animals.

Why it’s Important

The university has both legal and ethical obligations to ensure that research or teaching with live vertebrate animals is conducted in accordance with all federal and institutional regulations and policies.

Misuse or improper management of live vertebrate animals in research or teaching can risk injury, invite regulatory penalties, cause reputational damage, and may compromise funding. The university is committed to providing live animals used in teaching and research the highest level of care.

How to Comply

All Lehigh University faculty, staff, and students must obtain IACUC approval prior to conducting research or teaching activities using live vertebrate animals. Research and teaching with live vertebrate animals is restricted to certain locations on campus. Any proposed use or collection of wild, live vertebrate animals is also strictly regulated and must receive prior review and approval by the IACUC.

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