Oversight

Use of animals in research and teaching at the University of Alberta is governed by a multi-layered system of experts, ethics boards and regulatory bodies. This ensures that every project is scientifically sound and follows the highest standards of care.

Scientific Merit and Funding

All projects receive rigorous review for scientific merit and value to humans, animals or the environment. Panels of independent experts evaluate each proposal to ensure the animal use is significant and well-designed. National granting agencies, such as the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), conduct rigorous peer reviews, and funding is only awarded to projects that demonstrate high standards of excellence and the potential for a meaningful impact on science or health.

National Standards: The CCAC

The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) is the national body responsible for overseeing animal ethics and care in science across Canada. The University of Alberta proactively maintains a CCAC Certificate of Good Animal Practice (GAP). 

To maintain this certification, we undergo regular reviews of our programs and facilities. Additionally, all individuals working with animals must complete comprehensive training on ethics, CCAC standards and technical competence.

University Oversight

The University of Alberta Animal Policy and Welfare Committee (UAPWC) oversees the welfare of all animals in research and teaching. This committee reports directly to the vice-president of research and includes scientists, veterinarians, animal care staff, students and members of the general public.

The UAPWC delegates the detailed review of specific research projects to Animal Care and Use Committees (ACUC) and monitors the work of these committees. The ACUCs review every “Animal Research Protocol” to ensure the methods are ethically acceptable and meet high standards of animal welfare.

The Three Rs: Ethical Principles

The ACUC ensures that each research protocol applies the Three Rs:

• Replacement: using non-animal alternatives whenever they are feasible and appropriate
• Reduction: using the minimum number of animals required to produce valid scientific data
• Refinement: ensuring all procedures and housing practices are continually reassessed to minimize pain and distress

The review process covers every aspect of an animal's life, including handling, housing, anesthesia and environmental enrichment.

Continuous Monitoring

Oversight does not end when a project begins.

• Veterinary Care: Experienced veterinarians and specialized staff provide daily care. They visit facilities regularly to advise on the clinical care of animals, and are available for 24-hour emergency services.
• Post-Approval Monitoring: The ACUC deploys a dedicated team to conduct routine audits and annual reviews of ongoing use of animals in research and teaching to ensure approved protocols are followed.

Reporting Animal Welfare Concerns

The university is committed to strict compliance with all animal care protocols. We have established mechanisms for anyone to report concerns. Specific concerns regarding animal welfare may be directed to the Animal Care and Use Committee through the Research Ethics Office.