Step 1 - Prepare for Review

• Complete the required IACUC Training.
• Complete the Animal Care and Use Protocol form, including any required attachments.

Step 2 - Submit Protocol for Review

Submit your complete and signed protocol to the IACUC Administrator. Protocols must be submitted as a Word document.

Incomplete submissions will delay the review process.

Step 3 - Await Review

Protocols must be submitted at least six (6) weeks prior to a scheduled meeting to allow sufficient review time.

The IACUC Vivarium Manager and the IACUC Veterinarian will conduct an initial review and provide feedback (typically within 1–2 weeks of submission). Please respond promptly to any questions or comments, revise your protocol as needed, and email the updated version to the Vivarium Manager.

The full committee will then review the protocol before the next scheduled monthly meeting. If the committee has significant questions or concerns, the IACUC Chair may invite you to attend the meeting to address them.

If the protocol is approved, you will receive an approval letter via email from the IACUC Administrator.

If the protocol is not approved, the IACUC Administrator will send the committee’s feedback to you. Please respond promptly to the comments and revise your protocol accordingly. Once complete, send the revised protocol and your responses to the IACUC Chair and await further instructions.

Step 4 - After Approval

Once you receive your protocol approval letter from the IACUC committee, your research project can begin.

Changes After Approval

Minor changes to an approved IACUC protocol can be requested by submitting the Change in Protocol form to the IACUC Administrator. Significant changes require submission of a new protocol. The IACUC will make the final determination on whether a change is considered minor or significant.

Continuing Review

Protocols are initially approved for one year, with up to two one-year renewals. It is the researcher's responsibility to submit the Continuing Review/Final Report Form for IACUC review and approval.

If a protocol is set to expire, all research must cease until a renewal is approved.

Submitting a Final Report

After three years, or when the project is complete (whichever comes first), a Final Report form must be completed and submitted to the IACUC Administrator.

Protocol Expiration

If the protocol expires, all research must cease immediately.