Animal Care and Use Program
At The University of Texas at Austin, the study of animals is an essential part of scientists’ efforts to better understand health and disease. The research carried out by UT researchers aims to advance knowledge in important biological systems, and it seeks to identify novel targets for the development of therapies and diagnostics applicable to addiction, cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, autism and many other diseases or disorders.
The University is deeply committed to the ethical care and use of animals in research, teaching, and testing, prioritizing their welfare while adhering to all applicable federal and state laws and regulations (HOP 7-1310).
Explore below for comprehensive resources and information to support researchers engaged in animal research at UT Austin.
Find information on IACUC review procedures and semiannual inspections, as well as meetings and fees.
Find information and support on all issues related to the care and use of vertebrate animals utilized as part of the research and teaching activities of the University.
Find forms, procedures, checklists and other documents related to the care and use of animals in research designed to assist faculty, staff and students in performing vertebrate animal procedures in a humane manner and complying with pertinent regulatory requirements.
The use of animals in research, testing and teaching is subject to a multitude of laws, policies, regulations and standards.
Reporting Animal Welfare Concerns
UT’s policy is to provide the best possible care to ALL animals used for research, teaching and testing. The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is obligated to investigate concerns regarding the care and treatment of animals used in research, teaching or testing at UT Austin.
Concerns about animal care and use should be reported to any of the following:
Attending Veterinarian
(512) 232-3487 or attendingvet@austin.utexas.edu
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
(512) 471-8871 or iacuc@austin.utexas.edu
University Compliance Services
Report anonymously online
Phone: English 877-507-7321
Español 800-216-1288
Email: compliance@austin.utexas.edu
Individual(s) reporting concerns do not have to identify themselves, and the University will protect the privacy of those who report concerns to the maximum extent possible. The concerned, reporting party is protected from discrimination. The policy of the University is to prohibit unlawful retaliation against employees as a consequence of good faith actions in the reporting of, or the participation in an investigation pertaining to, allegations of wrongdoing.
Whistleblower posters should be posted in animal use areas, including satellite facilities. English and Spanish versions can be found on the Policies, Guidelines and Forms page.
For media inquiries, please email ResearchComms@austin.utexas.edu
Animal Care Alerts and Guideline Updates
May 5, 2025: UTRMS-IACUC Brief Session 2
Review this flyer for details about the next UTRMS-IACUC brief. Contact the IACUC office if you have any questions.
April 21, 2025: UTRMS-IACUC Brief Session 1 Webinar Slides
Overview of updated animal use counts, cage cards, and billing through the new UTRMS-AOps system. Contact the IACUC office if you have any questions.
April 17, 2025: New UTRMS Transition Scheme and Concierge Service
Introduction to the new UTRMS-IACUC scheme which involves re-opening eProtocol for technical and administrative amendments. As well as an introduction to the new concierge service the IACUC will be offering to help navigate protocol migration. Contact the IACUC office if you have any questions.
PHS Animal Welfare Assurance Number:
D16-00592 (A4107-01)
AAALAC Accredited Since October 29, 2001
USDA Class R Research Facility
Customer ID: 1453
Certificate: 74-R-0029