What are the VA IACUC membership requirements based on?

The membership requirements for the VA IACUC are primarily based on AWP (Animal Welfare Program) and PHS (Public Health Service) Policy requirements. This reflects the need for consistency with overarching federal guidelines that govern the use of animals in research and experimentation within institutions that receive federal funding.

AWP and PHS policies set specific criteria for IACUC membership to ensure that the committee is composed of individuals with the necessary expertise and perspectives to evaluate the ethics and welfare considerations of animal research meticulously. This includes having members with diverse backgrounds such as veterinary, medical, and ethical expertise, ensuring that the committee can comprehensively assess the proposed research involving animals.

While state and federal law, institutional guidelines, and personal qualifications may play a role in shaping the context of how IACUCs operate, the foundational criteria that determine the membership requirements specifically adhere to the established AWP and PHS policies. These policies are designed to promote humane and ethical treatment of research animals and ensure compliance with national standards.