The University of Utah has once again received continued full accreditation from AAALAC International, reaffirming our long-standing commitment to the highest standards of laboratory animal care and use.
Accredited by AAALAC since 1969—just four years after the organization’s founding—the U is proud to be among the earliest institutions to earn this recognition. This sustained accreditation reflects a decades-long dedication to responsible, ethical, and high-quality animal research.
Following a recent site visit, the AAALAC Council commended the university for “providing and maintaining an excellent program.” Highlights from the review included exemplary husbandry, veterinary care, well-maintained facilities, a robust training program, and a thoughtful employee recognition initiative. The contributions of both the Office of Comparative Medicine and the Office of Animal Care and Compliance were specifically recognized.
“We are proud to have once again earned continued full accreditation from AAALAC International, the gold standard for excellence in laboratory animal care,” said Dr. Alton Swennes, Assistant Vice President for Research Infrastructure and Executive Director of the Office of Comparative Medicine. “This reaccreditation reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the highest ethical and scientific standards in animal research. It reflects our dedication to continuous improvement, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed industry best practices.”
“Accreditation from AAALAC is more than a regulatory milestone—it’s a reflection of our shared values around research excellence, ethical care, and responsible science,” added Dr. Erin Rothwell, Vice President for Research.
Thank you to the dedicated teams whose hard work and expertise made this achievement possible. Your efforts not only strengthen our research enterprise but also uphold the integrity and global impact of our scientific community.
Sidebar: What Is AAALAC Accreditation?
AAALAC International is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals in science through voluntary accreditation and assessment programs. Accreditation by AAALAC signifies an institution’s dedication to responsible animal care and adherence to rigorous standards—often exceeding regulatory requirements. This recognition enhances the credibility of research programs and reflects a global commitment to ethical scientific practices.