Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB)
These pages principally deal with research and procedures involving animals.
Concordat on Openness on Animal Research
The University of Sussex is committed to meeting all external ethical and regulatory requirements for research. We are a signatory to the Concordat on Openness in Animal Research, which aims to help the public understand how and why animals are used on its behalf in scientific, medical and veterinary research in the UK. The University's position can be found here.
Home Office Compliance
Statistics on the use of animals in research are returned annually by the University of Sussex to the Home Office.
The AWERB
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The University's ethical review process involves lay representation (including a representative from an animal welfare organisation) and other members both external and internal to the University. It provides ethical advice on standards of animal care, welfare and accommodation and ensures that those working with animals are aware of their responsibilities and receive appropriate training. Veterinary and animal care staff are actively involved in the ethical review of research, welfare and care of animals and provide ongoing advice and support to researchers where appropriate.
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In the case of animal research proposals, which are not covered by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, the Principle Investigator, or Supervisor (in the case of student projects) is still required to apply for approval through the University's ethical review process. Students should contact their Supervisor or the Research Governance Office for advice about the appropriate form and procedure for applying for approval from the Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Board (AWERB).
Contact us
Please contact awerb@sussex.ac.uk for further advice and guidance.