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 Dutch 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]). You will be awarded the ‘Article 9’ certificate during your master’s graduation ceremony.
Content and period
This 3-week course is given in the following periods:
September 28 – October 16, 2009 (Dutch taught)
November 23 – December 11, 2009 (English taught)
February 8 – February 26, 2010 (Dutch taught)
May 17 – June 4, 2010 (English taught)
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
See blackboard for registration/enrolment of master’s modules. A lottery may be involved, which takes into account your personal wishes with respect to planning, to divide master students over the different courses throughout the year.
Remarks
International students should take the English-language Laboratory Animal Science course in Rotterdam, or in Utrecht.