Can a non-affiliated member receive compensation for their participation on the IACUC?

A non-affiliated member of an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) can indeed receive compensation for their participation, and this compensation must not be a significant source of income. The rationale behind this guideline is to ensure that the non-affiliated member's objectivity and independence are preserved.

When non-affiliated individuals serve on the IACUC, their role is critical to provide perspectives from outside the institution, helping to ensure that the animal welfare needs and community standards are met. If compensation were to make up a significant portion of their income, it could create a potential conflict or compromise their independent judgment. Therefore, allowing compensation while ensuring it does not become a primary source of income helps maintain the integrity of the IACUC's work while recognizing and valuing the contributions of non-affiliated members.

This approach fosters a balance between providing fair recognition for service and preventing undue influence that might arise from financial dependency.