Training

Details of the 2010 Modules 1 and 2 (Online modules) and Module 4 (Practical Session) are now available. Follow the links below.

NSW Legislation requires researchers and teachers who use animals to be competent in the procedures they perform, or be under the direct supervision of a person competent in the procedure. In addition, they must use the best available scientific and educational techniques. The training and technical ability of researchers and teachers is critical in minimising pain, distress and suffering in the animals they use. The Research Animal Training Scheme (RATS) has been developed to provide researchers and teachers with the underpinning knowledge and practical skills to ensure:

compliance with the legislation
humane animal use
ethical animal use
minimisation of risks associated with the use of animals

The Research Animal Training Scheme consists of:

Formal program (online and practical modules). Normally offered in March of every year (and August, depending on demand)
Online modules. Can be completed at any time.
Resource material. CD ROMs and DVDs available from the University of Newcastle Auchmuty Library, or for purchase
One-on-one training in the workplace

Assessment

This training program has been designed so that participants are issued with a "Statement of Attendance" for the module/s successfully completed.

Formal Program

The full program includes online and practical components and is normally offered in March of every year (and August depending on demand):

Module 1 (Online): Introduction to the use of animals in research
Module 2 (Online): Animal monitoring, pain management and anaesthesia
Module 3 (Tutorial): Applications to an Animal Ethics Committee
Module 4 (Practical): Animal care, monitoring, handling, and basic research procedures
Module 5 (Practical): Anaesthesia
Module 6 (Practical): Surgery and aseptic surgical techniques

Information and Registration

At this stage, only Modules 1, 2 and 4 are being offered. Details regarding other modules will be provided at a leter date.

Note: Preference is given to staff/students from the University of Newcastle and Hunter New England Area Health Service.

Information for staff and students of the University of Newcastle and Hunter New England Area Health Service:

Program information - Module 4. (Download Word)

Program information - Modules 1 and 2. (Download Word)

Registration form - Modules 1, 2 and 4. (Download Word).

Information for other organisations, institutions and individuals: Please see the Newcastle Innovation website.

Online modules (available anytime)

Modules available online are:

Module 1: Introduction to the use of animals in research
Module 2: Animal monitoring, pain management and anaesthesia

Program information and registration form: Download Word

Directions to Training Venues

For information on how to travel to the venues for tutorials and practical sessions, click here.

Resource Material

Resource CD ROMs and DVDs are available from the the University of Newcastle Auchmuty Library. They are also available for purchase.

CD Rom "Research Animal Ethics, Welfare and Use". Comprehensive information and notes for the RATS program are available on request (Download Order Form )
DVDs and CD ROMS are available from the University of Newcastle Auchmuty Library (for use within the library) or for purchase:

Title	Source
“Principles of aseptic surgery”. DVD.	The University of Newcastle. Download Order form
“Laparotomy in the rat”. DVD.	The University of Newcastle. Download Order form
“Careful how you hold me”. CD Rom	The University of Melbourne: Weblink (Search the catalogue for CD Rom title)
"Pain assessment in the rat". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Pain assessment in the rat". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Laboratory animal anaesthesia: Small mammals 1. Rat and Mouse". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Laboratory animal anaesthesia: Small mammals 2. Rabbit and Guinea Pig". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink
"Laboratory Animal Anaesthesia: Anaesthesia of the Cat and Dog". CD Rom	Professor Paul Flecknell, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Weblink