The McLaughlin Research Institute has played a unique and significant role in translational and clinical research that addresses the needs of those across the state of Montana, with applications nationally. The foundation for the extension of research from basic science to translational applications is in the history, as outlined in “Our Story.” In order to conduct meaningful research, it is critical that the foundations are based on principles set forth to ensure the health and welfare of personnel, visitors to the Institute, and research model organisms. Below, we outline two key components of our research integrity program: 1) The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and 2) the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).

The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)

In accordance with the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules, the McLaughlin Research Institute has established an Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC). The IBC is responsible for reviewing projects that involve, but are not limited to, recombinant DNA, RNAi, pathogens, human materials and other potentially infectious material, as well as transgenic animals. The IBC provides recommendations to the intramural community in matters pertaining to the control of biohazards associated with the use of microbiological agents and their vectors. It also represents the interests of the surrounding community with respect to public health and protection of the environment. The seven members of the Institute IBC are as follows:

·      Teresa Gunn, PhD (IBC Chair, Professor)

·      Brenda Canine, PhD (IBC Vice-Chair, Assistant Professor)

·      Rebecca Brown, BSN, RN (Occupational Health Coordinator)

·      Andrea Grindeland, DVM (Institutional Vet, Assistant Professor)

·      Rose Pitstick (Animal Resource Center Director)

·      Claire Casey (local, non-affiliated member)

·      Chris Ebeling (local, non-affiliated member)

·      Allison Mace (recorder only)

Minutes from the IBC committee meeting are provided here.

The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) at McLaughlin Research Institute is a federally mandated committee that oversees and regulates the use of live, vertebrate animals in research, teaching, and testing at institutions. Its key functions and responsibilities include:

  • Protocol review: The IACUC reviews and approves all research protocols involving animals to ensure they meet ethical and regulatory standards.

  • Program oversight: It oversees the institution's animal care and use program, ensuring it complies with federal regulations like the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy.

  • Facility inspections: The committee conducts regular inspections of all animal housing and use facilities to ensure they are maintained in a way that promotes animal welfare.

  • Suspension of activities: The IACUC has the authority to suspend any research activities involving animals if it determines the activities are not in compliance with regulations.

  • Education and guidance: It provides guidance and education to the institution's community, including investigators, technicians, and students, on the ethical and regulatory standards for animal use. 

Members of the IACUC are as follows:

·      Teresa Gunn (Chair)

·      S. Diane Lund (Vice Chair)

·      Andrea Grindeland

·      Rose Pitstick

·      Jennifer Fines (unaffiliated)

·      Betsy Smith (unaffiliated)