The PHS Policy and the Animal Welfare Act require the establishment of a committee whose function is to ensure that the care and use of animals is appropriate and humane. The membership of this committee includes a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with experience in laboratory animal science and medicine, an individual whose primary concerns are in a nonscientific area, an individual who is not otherwise affiliated with the Institution (the "outside member"), and practicing scientists experienced in research involving animals.  Members are appointed by the President of the UT Southwestern Medical Center and serve one-year terms.

It is the responsibility of the IACUC to ensure that the care and use of laboratory animals is in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy, and other laws, guidelines, and policies that address humane care and use of laboratory animals.  The IACUC is responsible for evaluating the care, treatment, housing and use of animals and for certifying compliance with the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy.  Specific responsibilities include:

1.      Review, at least once every six months, the research facility's program for humane care and use of animals.

2.      Inspect, at least once every six months, the research animal facilities to include animal study areas.

3.      Prepare reports of evaluations and submit the reports to the Institutional Official.

4.      Make recommendations to the Institutional Official regarding any aspect of the research facilities, animal programs, physical plant, or personnel training.

5.      Review and, if warranted, investigate concerns involving the care and use of laboratory animals.

6.      Review and approve, require modifications (to secure approval), or withhold approval of those components of proposed research, testing, or training procedures that relate to the care and use of animals.

7.       To suspend when warranted research, testing, or training procedures involving animals.

8.      Perform other duties as required by the Animal Welfare Act and PHS Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International, and regulatory or granting agencies.