Designation of the Authority for Biological and Biomedical Models

 

Designation, Tasks and General Description

The field of animal studies constitutes a basic and essential part of the general field of biological research. The University’s researchers conduct such research with the assistance of the Authority for Biological and Biomedical Models (hereinafter: “The Authority”).

The Authority is a service unit constituting a basis for the biological-medical research conducted at the Hebrew University. The Authority’s function is to enable University researchers to conduct high quality research related to animals; to provide breeding and storage spaces for animals and related products; to provide veterinary consultation and supervision; to provide various research services; and to provide an appropriate work environment for the institution’s researchers.

The Authority should carry out its role in a manner that allows researchers to perform in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, while maintaining the animals’ welfare. The University’s directives and the Animals Trials Act guidelines obligate both the Authority and researchers to act in a defined and dictated manner. Moreover, at times, there are also guidelines dictated by regulatory authorities overseas, requiring strict standards for maintaining animals, as a condition for conducting a given study.

 

The Authority’s Roles and Fields of Activity

The Authority’s main objective is: management, development and ongoing operation of all of the University’s animal facilities.

The Authority constitutes a managing, organizational and professional setting, designated to allow University researchers to conduct animal research at the highest level while maintaining animal welfare.

The main services provided by the Authority include:

• Breeding, purchasing and holding animals.
• Operating the animal facilities that are located on the various campuses.
• Provision of veterinary services by veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
• Central planning and development of research requirements for research involving animals.
• Setting policies on various aspects related to the Authority’s activity.
• Studying developments, and initiating, developing and introducing technological and other improvements in the animal facilities field.
• Professional and ethical guidance and control over the research activity performed on laboratory animals.