UVa Researchers Suspended for Animal Neglect
Two researchers at the University of Virginia have had their animal-handling privileges suspended for 30 days after reports surfaced that they neglected their protocols and harmed multiple animals on federally funded projects. The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee found that the researchers violated standard operating procedures during their experiments.
The committee, responsible for overseeing animal welfare in research, testing, and education in the U.S., discovered that the researchers failed to keep proper scientific records, monitor post-operation animal welfare, and provide pain relief medication to a rat and three mice.
Despite the 30-day suspension, animal rights activists are not satisfied with the punishment. Stop Animal Exploitation Now, a watchdog organization opposing animal research, is calling on UVa President Jim Ryan to impose more severe consequences. The group’s co-founder, Michael Budkie, believes that the researchers’ animal-handling privileges should be permanently revoked.
Budkie, who reviews numerous research cases each year, highlighted the importance of proper monitoring and training in research institutions. He criticized UVa for not adequately monitoring individuals and ensuring compliance with regulations.
UVa spokeswoman Bethanie Glover emphasized the university’s commitment to animal welfare and stated that compliance issues are reported and addressed promptly. However, Budkie remains skeptical of the university’s response and is prepared to escalate the issue to federal agencies to address systemic problems in animal research at UVa.
The potential loss of federal grants due to noncompliance could have significant financial implications for UVa, as the university receives substantial funding for medical research. Budkie stressed the importance of transparency in research funding and urged the public to be aware of how their tax dollars are being utilized.