What is the minimum duration that records must be retained in DoD research?

In the context of Department of Defense (DoD) research, records must be retained for a minimum duration of three years. This requirement aligns with the regulations and policies set forth by the DoD, which aim to ensure proper documentation and accountability in research activities. Retaining records for this period allows for adequate oversight and the ability to address any issues that may arise regarding the research conducted under DoD auspices.

Maintaining records for three years is crucial for various reasons, such as enabling audits, fulfilling legal obligations, and ensuring that all aspects of the research can be reviewed if necessary. This retention period is a standard practice to uphold the integrity and transparency of research activities, thus supporting the ethical treatment of animals in research within the DoD's framework.

In comparison, shorter retention durations, such as one or two years, would not provide sufficient time for these verifications and could compromise accountability. A five-year retention period, while it might seem beneficial for certain contexts, exceeds the minimum requirement specified by DoD guidelines, which can lead to unnecessary resource allocation for maintaining records longer than mandated. This balance of retaining records for three years is a critical aspect of compliance within the DoD's oversight of research activities.