Overview
The Qatar University Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (QU-IACUC) oversees and evaluates all research and teaching activities involving animals to ensure ethical, humane care and use. It enforces national and institutional guidelines and promotes the 3Rs principles—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement—for scientific integrity and animal welfare.
Responsibilities
Review and Approval
Evaluate and approve all research projects involving vertebrate animals.
Guidance and Recommendations
Provide advice on animal welfare, proper care, and ethical research practices.
Compliance Monitoring
Ensure adherence to national regulations, QU policies, and international animal-use standards, including post-approval monitoring.
Application Process
Required Documents
- Application Form
- Research Proposal
- Peer-Review
- IBC Approval
- CITI Training Certificates
- Statement of Declaration
- LARC Approval (if applicable)
Submission Instructions
- Access the necessary forms and templates through IRBNet.
- Complete the application package with all supporting documents.
- If using QU laboratories, obtain QU-IBC approval.
- Submit the complete package via IRBNet for committee review.
Training Requirements
All personnel listed on the protocol must complete relevant CITI Program training before approval. Certificates must have at least two months’ validity at submission.
- Working with the IACUC
- Animal Biosafety Course
- Species-specific courses (e.g., Rats, Mice, Fish, Zebrafish)
Partners
- Health, Safety, Security & Environmental Office (HSSE)
- QU-IBC (for biohazard protocols)
Formation and Governance
Operating under QU’s ethical research policies and MoPH standards, QU-IACUC is an independent body of faculty, veterinarians, and external experts. A quorum requires one scientist, one non-scientist, and one unaffiliated member.
Contact Information
- Telephone: +974 4403 5728
- Email: qu.iacuc@qu.edu.qa
- Office: Office #136, Old College of Education Building (B04), Qatar University
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of projects require QU-IACUC approval?
Any research project involving the use of vertebrate animals.
How long does the approval process take?
Typically 8–12 weeks, depending on application completeness and complexity.
Can I start my research before receiving QU-IACUC approval?
No—starting without approval is non-compliant.
What are the consequences of non-compliance?
Possible suspension of research, funding revocation, reporting to authorities, and legal action.
How do I submit an application?
Via IRBNet, using the IACUC forms under “Forms & Templates.”
When should I renew my approval?
Approval is valid for one year; renew at least one month before expiration (up to two times, third renewal requires de novo review).
How do I make changes to an approved protocol?
Submit an amendment via IRBNet detailing proposed modifications.
Can external researchers apply for QU-IACUC approval?
Yes—if affiliated with QU and holding required CITI training.
Who must complete animal ethics training?
All team members handling animals or avian embryos.
Is expired training accepted?
No—certificates must be valid for at least two more months at submission.