The responsibilities of the PI include:
- Ensuring that all PIs and individuals working with the animals are qualified or will be trained to handle, care for, and perform experimental procedures on the animals described in the IACUC application, per federal, state, and institutional requirements
- Providing all personnel with access to the PI’s protocol
- Making sure that the protocol does not represent an unnecessary duplication of previous experiments
- Ensuring that aseptic techniques are used when surgical procedures are performed on study subjects
- Using Good Laboratory Practices within the laboratory
- Reporting any changes in a previously approved IACUC protocol to the IACUC for review and approval. Such changes cannot be initiated without prior IACUC review and approval.
- Providing annual progress reports or updates regarding experimental outcomes as required by the IACUC
- Notifying the IACUC immediately of any relationship which constitutes a conflict of interest
- Identifying occupational health hazards related to the protocol and to providing the necessary training and equipment to minimize risks to staff
- Requiring research personnel to use personnel protective equipment while working with hazardous materials or in areas where such equipment is required
- Ensuring that all personnel use laboratory coats and proper attire while working in the laboratory
- Reporting to the IACUC any injuries to research personnel or adverse events related to the study within five business days of the occurrence
- Promptly reporting to the IACUC any violations to animal or human health and well-being, or violations of IACUC policies and procedures. Reporting may be confidential without fear of reprisal.
- Recognizing that failure to adhere to federal, state, and institutional policies related to animal care and use may result in the suspension or revocation of my privilege to perform animal research at the Mount Sinai Medical Center
- Promptly notifying the IACUC and submit a final report when a protocol is closed.