What is the role of the Institutional Official (IO)?

The role of the Institutional Official (IO) is primarily focused on overseeing compliance with animal welfare regulations. This position is critical as the IO ensures that the institution adheres to federal, state, and local laws regarding the humane care and use of animals in research, teaching, and testing. The IO represents the institution in matters of animal welfare, interacting with regulatory bodies and ensuring that the institution meets its ethical obligations concerning animal research.

This role includes the responsibility to ensure that all research activities involving animals are conducted in compliance with relevant policies, including those established by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). The IO plays a vital part in fostering a culture of compliance and ethical research practices within the institution by supporting the IACUC in its functions and ensuring the research activities align with both the institution's policies and external regulations.

The other options, while related to aspects of research administration, do not accurately capture the specific responsibilities associated with the IO’s role.