Policies and Procedures Document
Download complete 47-page Policies and Procedures PDF document here.
GENERAL INFORMATION FOR INVESTIGATORS
This guide provides information to investigators and their staff regarding the humane care and use of animals involved in research at the Texas A&M University Health Science Center Institute of Biosciences and Technology (IBT). The vivarium is managed by the Program for Animal Resources (PAR). This guide briefly describes the use of the equipment and supplies maintained at the facility, procedures that must be followed, and the responsibilities of personnel when working in these facilities. The PAR has a large investment in the rodent caging systems within the facility. These caging systems are designed to provide maximum protection against contamination by viruses, pathogenic bacteria, ectoparasites, and endoparasites. It is essential that all personnel follow the appropriate procedures outlined in this guide.
Personnel who do not follow these procedures may be denied access to the facility and may also lose their animal research privileges.
Keeping the facilities clean, secure and the animals healthy is critical for the success of everyone's research. If you see an investigator or a PAR employee who is not following the rules please take steps to correct the situation. You can contact the PAR manager, PAR supervisor, or veterinary staff. If possible, obtain the name of the person involved so that they can be contacted and retrained as necessary.
Emergency Numbers - Program for Animal Resources
| Names | Office | Beeper/Cell |
| Maya Justilian (Program Manager) | 713-677-7452 | 832-693-0429 |
| Philip Shirley (Supervisor, LATg) | 713-677-7471 | 713-415-2142 |
| Damon Delucia (Veterinary technician I) | 713-677-7622 | 281-813-9802 |
| David Brammer (Attending Veterinarian) | 713-792-2785 | |
| Dr. David Carlson (VP for Resarch TAMSHC Institutional Officer) | 979-458-7207 |
Contact numbers for the Manager, Supervisor, Technicians, and Clinical Veterinarians are prominently posted throughout the facility.
For Problems During Working Hours
For facilities-related issues contact the PAR Manager at 713-677-7452, the IBT Supervisor at 713-677-7471, or any of the PAR staff.
For animal husbandry issues, contact the PAR Manager, Supervisor, Veterinary Technician, or any of the PAR staff.
For animal health issues, contact the veterinary technician or any member of the veterinary staff.
Hours and on Weekends
For facilities related issues and animal husbandry issues contact security at 713-677-7464 or call the PAR Manager at 832-693-0429.
For animal health issues, call the UTHSC Veterinarian on call at 713-500-4453.
EMERGENCY VETERINARY SERVICE
U.T. MEDICAL SCHOOL (CENTER FOR LABORATORY ANIMAL MEDICINE AND CARE) - 713-500-4453
Information on the Status of the Vivarium and Animal Care Issues
Information affecting the vivarium or animal care will be posted outside the entrance of the vivarium as needed. The PAR Manager will also distribute information by email to the principal investigators and their technicians. The information should be passed on to the members of the research team.
Updated Information on the Status of the Vivarium and Animal Care Issues
IBT Emergency contact information can be accessed by dialing security at 713-677-7464.
Policies and Procedures Document
Download complete 47-page Policies and Procedures PDF document here.
