3.0 Institutional Review of Research Involving Animals and Fish at AUS

The American University of Sharjah has an ethical and legal responsibility to review all proposed research projects and activities involving animals and fish as subjects to ensure compliance with internationally recognized principles and regulations governing the protection of these species.

All research protocols involving animals and fish must be submitted to and approved by the AUS Animal Care Committee (ACC) before any study is undertaken.

This includes research conducted by faculty, staff and students—whether externally or internally funded, or self-funded.

The AUS ACC has the authority to approve, modify or disapprove studies; to require progress reports; to oversee the conduct of ongoing research; and to suspend, terminate approval or place restrictions on active studies.

Applications to the ACC are submitted through the AUS Office of Research.

3.1 About the AUS Animal Care Committee (ACC)

Background: The AUS ACC was established in fall 2006. It is composed of at least four members including a veterinarian and a member from the community. At least one member has a primary career in science and one is concerned with non-science areas.

Appointed by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, ACC members, in so far as possible, serve during two or more academic years. The ACC meets as required by the nature of the grant applications.

The Office of Research provides institutional support for the work of the ACC. The Coordinator of Research serves as an ex officio member of the AUS ACC. The names and qualifications of current ACC members can be obtained from the Office of Research.

Purpose: The AUS ACC has the institutional responsibility for review and annual monitoring of all research involving animals and fish carried out at AUS to assure that the research is carried out according to acceptable international norms.