Before you call us, we might be able to answer some of your questions here:

Q: Who can be a Principal Investigator (PI)?
A:  To answer this question, please visit http://www.clemson.edu/research/ospSite/forms/PI_Policy.pdf.

Q: What do I do to get started?
A: Go to our Getting Started page.

Q:  How do I write an application involving research animals?
A:  First, download the needed forms from the compliance website, since forms are periodically updated.  Next, checkout  OLAW's new web tutorial for investigators: How to Write an Application Involving Research Animals (http://www.niaid.nih.gov/ncn/clinical/researchanimals/tutorial/index.htm). 

Developed by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), in conjunction with OLAW, the tutorial provides a step by step guide to the preparation of an application and covers such topics as considering alternatives, obtaining assurances and IACUC approval, just in time processes, NIH review of animal subjects applications, grant awards, IACUC monitoring of awards, and reporting requirements.

Although designed specifically for NIAID applicants, the information is relevant to any investigator submitting an application to the NIH for an activity involving animals.  

Q: I can't download the forms… what do I do now?
A: Contact our IACUC Office and we will help you. You can send e-mail to bridgeo@clemson.edu or you can call 864-656-1526.

Q: What do I do to add/delete personnel in my protocol?
A: Please use the new amendment form customized for adding/deleting personnel. A Qualification of Personnel form is now attached to the new personnel amendment form.

Q: How do I register for the on-line training?
A: You can train online at http://www.citiprogram.org. For instruction on logging into the on-line training site, please click on the following link: http://www.clemson.edu/research/orcSite/orcIRB_CITIHelpPage.htm.

Q: How do I sign up for the occupational health and medical surveillance programs?
A: Please contact Sue Pedrick, RN, Nursing and Wellness Center at 864-656-5529.  You can also train online at http://www.hehd.clemson.edu/MSP/.

Q: There's a meeting of the committee next month. How do I get my protocol reviewed?
A: First, check our Getting Started page. Second, find out the exact date the committee meets. This will tell you when we meet as well as the deadline for submissions. As long as you complete the forms correctly and submit your materials by the deadline, you should be able to have your protocol reviewed. If you have additional questions, please contact the IACUC Office, bridgeo@clemson.edu.

Q: My grant is due next week, and I have to get approval! Help, what do I do? I can't wait for the next committee meeting!
A: Please call the IACUC Office for assistance.

Q: My project has changed quite a bit. What do I do?
A: You should contact either the IACUC Office or the University Veterinarian as soon as possible. The University Veterinarian or the IACUC Chairperson will determine whether an amendment or a new protocol is necessary.

Q: Can't I wait until the annual review?
A:  No, as that would be out of compliance with Federal Regulations. Please contact the IACUC Office or University Veterinarian for further assistance.

Q: My project is finished. Do I need to tell anyone?
A: Yes, please contact the IACUC Office as soon as possible.

Q: I want to go ahead and order the animals so that I can get started once I have approval. How can I do this?
A: You can't! Please note: animal facility managers are not allowed to purchase, transfer or accept animals for projects until receipt of documented IACUC approval of the protocol.

Q: I have some questions on the University's animal care and use program or policies and regulations governing the use of animals at Clemson University, so who do I call?
A: You may contact Dr. W. Gregory Queen, University Veterinarian, at 864-656-1849.

Q: What about actual laboratory animal handling or techniques - who do I call for that?
A: Please contact Melody Willey via email mclrk@clemson.edu or by phone, 864-656-0908.

Q: What about where to house animals? And what support do you offer for taking care of them?
A: For more information regarding animal purchasing, housing, research support facilities and services visit the Office of Research Services web site.

Q: I am worried about how some animals in my class were treated. Where do I take this concern?
A: Please contact the IACUC Office bridgeo@clemson.edu. She will take your concerns to the appropriate person.

Q:  What if my research involves Fish?
A:  Please refer to "Guidelines for the Use of Fishes in Research", made available by the American Fisheries Society.

Q:  What if my research involves Mammals?
A:  Please refer to "Guidelines for the Capture, Handling, & Care of Mammals", as approved by The American Society of Mammalogists.

Q:  What if my research involves Birds?
A:  Please refer to "Guidelines to the Use of Wild Birds In Research", made available by the Ornithological Council.

Q:  What if my research involves Reptiles and/or amphibians?
A:  Please refer to "Guidelines for Use of Live Amphibians and Reptiles in Field and Laboratory Research, 2nd edition."

Q: What if I am not doing my animal research here?
A: In instances where Clemson University administers the grant, but the animal studies are conducted at another institution, the Public Health Service requires that a Memorandum of Understanding be executed between the institutions. The Memorandum of Understanding documents the review and approval of the representing IACUC at the study site.

Q: What do I do if I have read this document and still need help?
A: For additional questions, concerns, or suggestions, please contact our IACUC Office at (864)656-1526 or by email.

Q: Does the PHS Policy apply to the production of custom antibodies, or to the purchase of surgically modified animals?
A: The generation of custom antibodies is considered an activity involving vertebrate animals and covered by PHS Policy. Antibodies are considered customized if produced using antigen(s) provided by or at the request of the investigator (i.e., not purchased off-the-shelf). An organization producing custom antibodies for a grantee must have or obtain an Assurance, or be included as a component of the grantee's Assurance. In addition, the applicant must provide the date (verification) of project-specific IACUC approval for the production of the antibodies.

Q: What about pets on campus?
A: IACUC oversight does not extend to pets unless they are being used in research or teaching activities on campus. Contact the Office of Research Compliance for more information.

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