Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) FAQ

What Training Is Required to conduct animal research?

You must complete the training program at the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (select “City University of New York” as your institution). The CITI certificate is valid for three years. If your credential has expired or is close to expiring, please take the refresher course. This will give you a new certificate that is valid for another three years. All of your staff should have CITI certificates as well.

What materials would I need for an Animal Research Application?

The following material is needed for a complete IACUC application:

• Completed Brooklyn College IACUC Application form
• CITI Program Certificates for Animal Research for all key personnel (See CITI Training Requirements)
• Grant information (including copy of grant application)
• Health Assessment forms

Who can submit an animal protocol?

All research utilizing animals as subjects must be overseen by a full-time CUNY faculty member. Students (undergraduates, graduates, doctoral, and postdoctoral) cannot serve as principal investigators (PIs) on a protocol. Completed applications are sent via e-mail.

How are protocols reviewed?

Upon submission, protocols undergo administrative review to ensure it is completed in its entirety and proper information is provided. The protocol is then sent into the Designated Member Review (DMR) / Full Committee Review (FCR) Process.

In the DMR Process, each IACUC member is provided with the protocol and given the opportunity to request full committee review of the proposal. If no member requests full committee review, the chair will designate two qualified members to review the proposal. The designated members have the authority to approve, require modifications (to secure approval), or request full committee review.

What is the approval period for my project?

The IACUC approval for a project is granted for three years. However, in its third year, the protocol must receive de novo review.

What Is Required if I need to make changes to my protocol after I received approval.

Complete an amendment form for all changes (minor and major) and submit it to the Brooklyn College IACUC. Do not implement any changes, including change in personnel, without IACUC approval.

What should I do if I or Someone Needs to Report lab mistreatment/misuse an of animal/Noncompliance?

Anyone who is aware of potential violations to animal care and use regulations, or who observes misuse or mistreatment of animals, is strongly encouraged to report these concerns. Members of the college community should report their concerns through normal lines of communication, such as via their supervisors. Concerns may be sent by phone, in writing, in person, or via the web. The person may remain anonymous. Concerns may also be reported to the following:

Chair of the IACUC
Professor Andrew Delamater
E: andrewd@brooklyn.cuny.edu

Office of Research Compliance
E: iacuc@brooklyn.cuny.edu
P: 718.951.5000, ext. 3829

How often Are the animal facilities and areas where animals are Housed/used Are inspected?

At least twice per year by the IACUC. The IACUC has the right to inspect the animal facility and areas where animals are used on a more frequent basis. There can also be unscheduled inspections by the Department of Health.