Training

Each individual applying to work with animals or requesting access to the Vivarium must complete the following training and immunization requirements:

Step 1: Online Training

Description: These online training modules are designed to provide an understanding of animal research regulations and proper care and handling of animals in a research setting. Link.

Log-in Instructions:

Username: utdallas
Password: bell

Required Modules

1. The Base Module (The Humane Care & Use of Laboratory Animals)
2. The Safety Module (Occupational Health & Safety)
3. The Species Module (One or more of the species-specific modules pertaining to your research)

Optional Technique Modules

1. Aseptic Surgery of Rodents
2. Anesthesia and Analgesia of Rodents

** Both are strongly recommended if you will be performing surgery.

Step 2: Immunization Requirements

Description: UT Dallas and IACUC policy require that individuals working with animals receive a Tetanus immunization. If you have already received a Tetanus immunization, please submit the record to the Office of Research Integrity (ORI). The immunization must not be older than 10 years, or you will have to be re-immunized. A tetanus immunization can be obtained from UTD Health Services: http://www.utdallas.edu/healthcenter/index.html

Instructions: Proof of tetanus immunization (shot record) must be provided to ORC prior to obtaining access to the Vivarium.

Office of Research Integrity
Contact: Conor Wakeman

Drop Off: Administration (AD) Building 3.218
Fax: 972.883.2310

Step 3: Hands-On Training (by appointment only)

Description: This training is provided by Kathan McCallister, Animal Programs Manager, and is designed to acclimate the individual to the handling of animals and provide training on proper techniques.

Instructions: Steps 1 and 2 must be completed prior to scheduling an appointment for Hands-On Training. Should an individual attempt to attend the Hands-On Training without an appointment, that individual will be turned away. If you have completed the requirements and would like to schedule an appointment for Hands-On Training, contact Conor Wakeman at 972.883.4718 or conor.wakeman@utdallas.edu.

Techniques and items covered:

• Vivarium tour
• Supplies
• First Aid
• Policies and SOPs, (i.e. needle stick policy, occupational safety, etc.)
• Acclimation to animal handling (upon request)
• Injections (upon request)
• Gavaging (upon request)
• Blood draw (upon request)

Step 4: Building Access Form

Instructions: This form must be signed by your Faculty Sponsor and returned to the Office of Research Integrity before access can be granted.

To acquire the form, contact Conor Wakeman.

Step 5: NSERL Badge

Description: Upon completion of the above four steps, the individual's Comet Card will be activated and a photo ID badge will be issued.

Instructions: Photo ID badges can be obtained at the Comet Center, Student Union (SU) 2.204. http://www.utdallas.edu/cometcenter/.

If you are having trouble obtaining a badge, contact Conor Wakeman.