A leading international organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals in science has awarded the University of Connecticut full accreditation, following an intensive peer review process that included a rigorous on-site evaluation.
The Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC International) is a private, nonprofit organization that works with institutions and researchers to bridge scientific advancement, education, and animal well-being through voluntary accreditation and assessment programs.
According to the organization’s website, more than 800 companies, universities, hospitals, government agencies, and other research institutions in 32 countries have earned AAALAC accreditation. They include the National Institutes of Health, Harvard University, the University of Michigan, the University of California and Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
In addition to complying with state and federal laws that regulate animal research, these institutions, and now UConn, volunteer to participate in AAALAC’s program. Not only do accredited institutions demonstrate that they meet the minimum standards required by law, but they affirm their commitment to going the extra step to achieve excellence in animal care.
“This accreditation has been an important goal for the University for many years,” says Suman Singha, UConn’s vice president for research and senior vice provost. “AAALAC International represents the gold standard for animal care that exceeds what is required by law.”
Being AAALAC-accredited provides confirmation that UConn sets, achieves, and maintains high standards in animal care that go beyond the legal minimum. The high standards apply to UConn’s facilities, practices, and policies regarding the care of animals in science and teaching. The accreditation also allows UConn to be more competitive as it seeks federal research dollars.
“The fact that we received full accreditation demonstrates that the University adheres to the highest standards of animal care,” says Singha. “This is a tribute to the hard work of our faculty and staff and a demonstration of their commitment to excellence. I would like to thank all the individuals who have worked tirelessly to achieve this important goal.”
