What is the correct procedure regarding IACUC member voting?

The correct procedure regarding IACUC member voting states that only regular members can vote, not alternates. This is rooted in the structured roles within the IACUC, where regular members are designated to make decisions and contribute to the ethical review of research protocol, ensuring that those who are voting have the requisite training and authority assigned to them as regular members.

Alternates serve as replacements for regular members when they are unable to attend meetings, but their presence during a vote is not counted unless they are actively replacing a regular member who is absent. This helps maintain the integrity of the decision-making process by ensuring that only those who are designated to fulfill that role participate in the vote.

Understanding this voting structure is vital for adhering to the ethical and regulatory standards that govern animal research and ensuring that the reviews are conducted appropriately.