Can members of the IACUC hold more than one role at the same time?

In an IACUC context, while members can technically hold multiple roles, doing so can lead to potential conflicts of interest and complications in the review process. Therefore, it is generally discouraged to ensure integrity and objectivity in the review and oversight of animal research. Holding more than one role may create biases or perceived biases that compromise the independent oversight necessary for ethical animal research practices. This emphasis on discouragement promotes clarity in responsibilities and adherence to ethical standards.

The other options present various extremes regarding the permissibility of concurrent roles, which do not necessarily reflect the best practices for IACUC operations. Acknowledging the complexities of dual roles while advising against them supports a framework that prioritizes ethical oversight while allowing for flexibility in committee membership.