Research involving animals

As an internationally recognized teaching, research and service institution, the University of California is dedicated to understanding the world that we live in and to applying that knowledge for the benefit of our planet and to improve human condition. In pursuing that mission, research at University of California draws on a variety of research models, including animals, to help answer questions about human and animal health and disease.

The University of California is committed to highest ethical standards in the conduct of its biomedical and social science/behavioral research, by applying and promoting humane, responsible animal care and use in its research and teaching activities. All research involving animals is subject to rigorous reviews by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) located at UC campuses and care of research animals is overseen at each campus by highly qualified Attending Veterinarians. UC strives to comply with federal and state regulations governing the humane care and use of laboratory animals, including the USDA Animal Welfare Act. In addition, UC campuses are all accredited by independent organizations that promote humane treatment of animals in science.

Contact: Dragana Nikolajevic at  dragana.nikolajevic@ucop.edu or (510) 987-9634.

Policies & Guidance

Contract and Grant Manual Chapter 18

Protection of Research Subjects

Care of Laboratory Animals in the Event of Emergency or Disaster PDF

May 2013

This Memorandum of Understanding is intended to document the intention of the participating University of California Campuses to render Laboratory Animal Care and housing assistance in case of an emergency.

External Laws, Regulations & Policies

Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare Link

The Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) oversees the care and use of research animals in Public Health Service (PHS)-funded research

PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals Link | Frequently Asked Questions on PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals Link

Animal Welfare Act Link

The Animal Welfare Act, signed into law in 1966, is the only Federal law in the United States that regulates the treatment of animals in research, exhibition, transport, and by dealers. Other laws, policies, and guidelines may include additional species coverage or specifications for animal care and use, but all refer to the Animal Welfare Act as the minimum acceptable standard.

Animal Welfare Act Information Link