Who serves on the IACUC by virtue of their employment status?

The Attending Veterinarian serves on the IACUC by virtue of their employment status, as this individual is a mandated member of the committee due to their role within the institution. Their position is critical because they provide veterinary oversight and ensure that the institution's animal care and use practices align with regulations and ethical standards.

The inclusion of the Attending Veterinarian helps ensure that scientific protocols consider the health and welfare of the animals, aligning both institutional and regulatory requirements. This role is essential for providing expertise on animal care, welfare, and ethical considerations, which are central to the mission of the IACUC.

Other options do not appropriately reflect individuals who serve on the IACUC primarily due to their employment status. For example, while the veterinarian might have responsibilities, they may not be specifically designated as the Attending Veterinarian, nor do they necessarily have to be employed in a direct capacity related to animal care and use. Committee members, particularly non-affiliated members, bring external perspectives and may not have an employment relationship with the institution. Hence, the focus on the employment status distinctly identifies the Attending Veterinarian's mandatory participation in the IACUC.