Contact
Daily coordinator for questions and administrative issues: G.C. van der Velden MSc
Email: g.c.van.der.velden@biology.leidenuniv.nl
Description
The study of biology aims to understand life in all its forms and functions. Research on the whole organism level - be it of the fundamental or applied kind- involves study of living organisms. These should at all times be treated and handled with outmost concern and respect. For experimental animals both Dutch and EU legislation have set up strict procedures for reviewing and licensing experiments and to monitor animals’ welfare throughout. An important feature of this legislation is to ensure that no animal research is conducted without previous review and approval of the research and welfare monitoring plan. This course provides basic knowledge on the use and care of birds as laboratory animals for MSc-students, PhD-students and researchers and is obligatory before starting an internship that involves handling or experimental use of bird species. The course covers legal and ethical frameworks for the use of laboratory animals and scientists’ responsibilities in the design, and conduct of experiments and with special emphasis on the monitoring of the welfare and health of the animals.
The program will broadly cover different research areas involving bird species, and in depth review of the use of zebra finches for neurobiological and behavioural research. In a series of lectures, the course participants will be introduced to bird development, anatomy and physiology, the immune system, recognition of discomfort, stress and pain, disease symptoms and health monitoring, anesthesia/euthanasia methods, genetic modification, behavioral research and experiments with birds in the wild. The course will also entail an introduction to zebra finch facility management and husbandry.
Learning goals
Learning Objectives:
Knowing and understanding of the legal, ethical and biological facts and principles that need to be considered for humane use and care of laboratory animals and research involving animals. Students will have gained awareness of factors that direct or indirectly may impact birds’ behaviour and welfare in the laboratory or during experiments. After completion of the course, students will possess basic knowledge of the developmental, anatomical, physiological and behavioral characteristics, genetic modification, and research applications of bird species and will have been familiarised with the monitoring tools to recognize symptoms of fear, pain, discomfort and disease in birds. Knowledge of methods of handling and procedures on birds and requirements for husbandry.
Final Qualifications:
Under strict supervision of licensed personnel, the student is allowed to perform basic procedures on laboratory or wild bird species. The course includes all aspects of a species-specific module. Therefore a species specific bird certificate will be provided when you have been present at all compulsory lectures and passed the exam. This certificate in combination with a successful completion of an animal experimentation course (article 9 course) provides the legally required licence to design procedures and projects for birds.
Timetable
14 February 2022 – 25 February 2022
14 February 2022: General introduction to animal experimentation.
This is a one-day program led by Prof. dr. ir. J.B. Prins with lectures and discussions, which requires preparation in advance (instructions will be provided on Brightspace. Participants already in the possession of an article 9 certificate can apply for exemption from this part of the course.
15-18 February 2022: species-specific bird course theory.
This is a 4-day program with lectures and practical assignments.
25 February 2022: exam.
Mode of instruction
The course consists of a lecture program and practical assignments in the bird facility
The general introduction part also contains an ethical review session.
Assessment method
Written examination
Attendance to all lectures and practicals is compulsory in order to receive the certificate.
The final grade consists of the following partical grades:
Examination 100%
Minimum grade for the written examination is 5.6.
Inspection and feedback on the examination
To be published on BS together with final schedule.
Brightspace
Yes
Reading list
General introduction on animal experimentation:
Species-specific bird course: A general reading list and lecture specific literature will be announced via Brightspace.
Registration
Via Usis
Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for more information on how to apply.