Objectives/ aim
The course on laboratory animal science presents basic facts and principles that are essential for the humane use and care of laboratory animals and for the quality of research.
The course has been approved by the government for the qualification of scientists who use animals for experimental purposes (in compliance with the Dutch Experiments on Animal Act
[Wet op de Dierproeven]).
Content
This 3-week course is given in the following periods:
September 29 – October 16, 2008
November 24 – December 11, 2008
February 2 – February 19, 2009
May 4 – May 20, 2009
During the course following subjects will be assessed:
Legal and ethical frameworks for the use of laboratory animals;
Welfare and quality systems;
Behaviour, anatomy, physiology, and diseases of common and less common laboratory animal species;
Anesthesia, analgesia and humane endpoints;
Gnotobiology;
Husbandry, care and handling of the commonly used laboratory animals;
Genetics and genetical modifications;
Animal models;
Alternatives to animal experiments and statistics;
Points of view of animal protection organizations.
Literature
L.F.M. van Zutphen, V. Baumans, A.C. Beijnen – Handboek Proefdierkunde. Elsevier gezondheidszorg (4e druk).
Form of tuition
Lectures and hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, a tour of the animal facilities and an ethical review session.
Mode of assesment
The course is concluded by a written test (essay questions and multiple-choice questions) that must be passed to obtain the certificate (if other legal requirements are obtained).
Entry requirements/recommended prior knowledge
Bachelor Biomedical Sciences.
Knowledge of the basic subjects of biology up to 18.75 ECTS (=500 study hours) including at least 7.5 ECTS on anatomy/zoology and 7.5 ECTS on physiology.
Registration/enrolment
Student administration Biomedical Sciences
Remarks
International students can do an English-language Laboratory Animal Science course in Rotterdam, or in Utrecht.