University College Dublin

ProfCert Training on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations & Procedures
Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 5)
Designed to achieve the objectives of training personnel involved in use of animals for experimental research in line with the requirements of Article 23 of Directive 2010/63/EU
• New EU-Regulations on requirements for conducting research involving animals
• Animal welfare and responsibilities of researchers
• Study designs and Bio-statistics
• Basic animal physiology
• Competency in basic and routine animal care procedures
• Competency in relevant experimental procedures

Vision and Values Statement
This professional certificate is designed, in line with the requirements of Article 23 of Directive 2010/63/EU, to train personnel who are involved in use of animals for experimental research. Students will learn about their responsibilities and regulatory requirements when undertaking research studies involving the use of live animals for experimental research or teaching in professional practice. Students will develop their skills and knowledge that will enhance the management and ethical treatment of animals. This programme is recognised by HPRA (Health Products Regulatory Authority) as an appropriate accredited scientific animal training course in Ireland. The Training on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations and Procedures (TEARAP) programme will be delivered through innovative online teaching and assessment approaches. We value and encourage students to become self-regulated learners and ethical practitioners. The programme is therefore designed to enable students to self-direct their own learning on a part-time basis; registration to the TEARAP programme is available year-round, giving students the flexibility to take the programme whenever it suits them.

Programme Outcomes
• Define and critic the requirements under National legislation for using animals for research or teaching.
• Discuss, research and apply best practice in ethics, animal welfare and the principles of Three Rs (Reduce, Refine and Replace).
• Describe the basic and appropriate biology of species specifically used in research or teaching.
• Demonstrate the necessary skills for animal care, health and management.
• Recognise and assess pain and distress in animals used for research or teaching and to be able to formulate and implement a plan to minimise suffering.
• Define and discuss humane and recommend appropriate methods of euthanasing animals used for research or teaching.
• Optimally design procedures and projects involving the use of animals for research or teaching utilising best practice.
• Identify and discuss the use of anaesthesia for minor procedures.
• Explain basic principles of surgery.
• Describe and critic animal husbandry, care and enrichment practices.