Research Involving Animals

Dr Nikki Osborne provided an overview of the revised UKRIO research integrity primer on research involving animals. This document is intended as a reference tool to aid organisations to support the responsible use of animals in research, irrespective of whether it falls within the licenced controls of the Animals in Scientific Procedures Act (ASPA), or not. It highlights the main points for research integrity officers, research ethics committee members and others involved in the purchase or use of ethically sourced animals and animal derived research materials to consider in relation to local policies, procedures and training. The primer also contains example policies and forms, as well as links to useful tools and resources that can use to develop organisations management and oversight of common issues that exist within Life Science research disciplines. Nikki’s slides can be found here.

Catherine McCarthy presented an overview of the current review of the acquisition and use of animal materials and more broadly non-human materials in research, that is currently being undertaken at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. As part of this, the presentation highlighted the considerations that are contributing to this process, as well as the breadth of scope that is necessary given the differing scenarios in which material is/can be obtained. Catherine also introduced a collaborative piece of work which seeks to produce a consistent approach that addresses both the scientific and education sector. This group aims to ultimately where possible, standardise the approach to reviewing and obtaining assurances of legal and ethical sourcing to mitigate reputational risk and to promote and champion the standards, transparency and co-operation that we look for. Catherine’s slides can be found here.

Andy Cunningham presentation focused on the ethical review of Non A(SP)A activities at the University of Sussex. In addition to the requirement to perform Ethical Review on Projects performed under Project Licences granted by the Home Office the University of Sussex has committed to performing ethical review on research and teaching activities not regulated by the Home Office. The University has developed a process for researchers and lecturers to submit application for non-regulated projects for review, initially, by the Named Animal Care and Welfare Officer and Named Veterinary Surgeon and also the full ARG where appropriate. The aspiration of the University is to ensure that any animal use the University perform or collaborate on irrespective of location is subject to ethical review. Andy’s slides can be found here.

Question & Answer Session