On behalf of an institution, which individual is ultimately responsible for compliance with PHS Policy?

The individual ultimately responsible for compliance with PHS (Public Health Service) Policy is the Institutional Official. This person holds the authority to ensure that the institution adheres to all applicable regulations regarding animal care and use in research. The Institutional Official's responsibilities often include overseeing the IACUC's operations and ensuring that policies are followed, as well as signing any required assurance documents that commit the institution to comply with PHS Policy.

While the IACUC plays a crucial role in reviewing animal research protocols and ensuring ethical standards are upheld, and the attending veterinarian provides veterinary care and ensures humane treatment of animals, it is the Institutional Official who is held accountable at the institutional level. The IACUC Chair also has significant responsibilities but is still subordinate to the Institutional Official in terms of compliance authority.