About Institute Animal Care and Use Committee
In 2024 Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) has been established in Orbeli Institute of Physiology to oversee and routinely evaluate care and use of laboratory animals for research activities.
Animal Care and Use Committee consists of 5 voting members including Chair – practicing scientist experienced in animal research, veterinarian, member involved in animal care and management, non-scientific member and a person not affiliated with the Orbeli Institute other than for service on the committee. Alternate members are also appointed.
The committee is chaired by Prof. Armen Voskanyan and includes the following members:
Ekaterina Baydyuk
Viktor Spangenberg
Mikhail Poliakov
Evelina Harutyunyan
Gayane Kirakosyan (as an alternate member)
Responsibilities:
– Advise the staff dealing with animals on matters related to the welfare of animals in relation to their acquisition, accommodation, care and use
– Advise the staff on the application of the requirement of replacement, reduction and refinement, keep staff informed on technical and scientific developments concerning the application of that requirement
– Establish internal operational process of monitoring, reporting and follow-up of animal’s
welfare issues
– Review Institute’s proposed projects and study protocols at the stage of development for
“humane care and use”
– Follow the development and outcome of the projects and advise on elements that will
further contribute to replacement, reduction and refinement
– Require modifications or withhold approval after reviewing on-going activities. Activities should be reviewed at least once in 3 years
– Oversee training for personnel and keep it documented
– Inspect animal facilities, review the condition of animals and provide inspection reports
– Review concerns from the personnel regarding care and use of animals.