The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is currently comprised of 11 members--four scientists, four non-scientific professionals, one non-affiliated community member, the attending veterinarian, and the chair. The purpose of the IACUC is to assure that UTEP researchers care for and use animals in ways judged to be scientifically, technically, and humanely appropriate. The committee provides research oversight and evaluation of the institution's animal care and use program and facilities by ensuring compliance with federal regulations related to the proper care, use, and humane treatment of animals used in research, testing and education. The IACUC also provides assistance to investigators in fulfilling their obligation to plan and conduct animal research in accordance with the highest scientific and ethical principles.

The responsibilities of the committee include the review, at least once every six months, of the institutions animal care program including a physical inspection of the facilities in accordance with the Guide*; preparation of reports on the IACUC evaluations for the Institutional Official; review of all concerns involving the care and use of animals at The University; make recommendations to the Institutional Official regarding any aspect of the animal care program; and review, approve, require modifications in (to secure approval), withhold approval, or suspend activities involving the use of live vertebrate animals in all research, training, and biological testing.

The responsibilities of the IACUC are mandated by the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals; United States Department of Agriculture-Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; U.S. Government Principles for the Utilization and Care of Vertebrate Animals Used in Testing, Research and Training; and Code of Federal Regulations, 1989, Title 9, Parts 1, 2, and 3 (Animal Welfare Final Rules).