Juniata recognizes the ethical responsibility for humane care of animals. Persons who use animals in teaching or research must assume responsibility for general animal welfare and conform to applicable regulations and policies. All animal accommodation facilities and programs shall be operated in accordance with applicable regulations.

The responsibilities of persons engaged in the use of live vertebrate animals include:

  • Be familiar with pertinent rules and regulations;
  • Submit a protocol for review and approval by the IACUC before proceeding with the acquisition, transportation, housing, or use of any vertebrate animals;
  • Carry out projects using minimal numbers of animals, minimizing pain and distress to animals;
    Maintain appropriate records; and
  • Provide appropriate training to students, staff, and others involved with animal care and/or use. Such training shall include: 1) proper handling and care procedures for animal species used by the facility, 2) precautions necessary to protect the animal handlers from known risks or disease, and 3) reporting methods for deficiencies in animal care or treatment.

Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee

Juniata's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) monitors care and use of vertebrate animals and reviews program compliance.

Committee responsibilities:

  • Carry out annual protocol reviews and evaluation of activities involving animals;
  • Make recommendations to Principal Investigators, Departments, or the Provost regarding any aspect of the animal program, facilities, or personnel training;
  • Review, and, if warranted, investigate complaints received from employees or from the public; and
  • Perform other functions as required by institutional needs and by federal, state, and local authorities.

Committee Members:

  • Marsha Hartman, Community Member
  • Jill Keeney, Biology
  • Leslie Leckvarcik, Science Outreach
  • George Merovich, Environmental Science & Studies
  • Roy Nagle (Chair), Research Integrity and Environmental Safety
  • Wade Roberts, Philosophy
  • Jake Werner (Veterinarian), Penn State University

Inquiries concerning policies should be directed to the IACUC Chair: Roy Nagle.

Application Protocol for Care and Use of Vertebrate Animals

Federal animal welfare regulations require that the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee review and approve all activities involving the use of vertebrate animals prior to their initiation. Compliance with animal welfare regulations is mandatory and is the responsibility of all individuals involved in teaching or research.

Protocols involving vertebrate animals must be submitted for review to Juniata’s IACUC. To obtain a copy of the protocol application, visit Juniata’s IACUC moodle site.