The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS), a 501(c)3 nonprofit membership association, is the premier
forum for the exchange of information and expertise in the care and use of laboratory
animals. Since 1950, we've been dedicated to the humane care and treatment of
laboratory animals and the quality research that leads to scientific gains that
benefit people and animals. Below is a sampling of the programs, products, and
services we provide our members and the laboratory animal science community.
AALAS National Meeting. Over 200 educational presentations are made each
year at our
National Meeting. These seminars, platform sessions, special lectures, workshops,
and round-table discussions cover a wide range of topics of interest to AALAS
members and other lab animal professionals.
Publications. Our award-winning
publications cover topics of interest to everyone involved in the care and
use of laboratory animals and keep members up to date on the latest association
news.
Certification. Nationally recognized as the authoritative endorsement
of technician competence, our
technician certification program certifies three levels of technical knowledge.
The
Technician Certification Registry is a voluntary program for technicians
to demonstrate a current, credible level of knowledge. Laboratory animal facility
managers will be interested in our
Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) program, which is designed
to raise competency and professionalism in the field. The annual CEU requirement
ensures that certified animal resource managers are abreast of the latest in
management techniques and theory.
Institute for Laboratory Animal Management (ILAM).
ILAM is an education program for professional laboratory animal managers that
focuses on management concepts applicable to the animal resource industry.
AALAS Learning Library. The
AALAS Learning Library (ALL) provides online learning opportunities in professional
development and laboratory animal science courses for ongoing education and
training.
Job Search Resources. The
CareerLine page provides year-round opportunities for job seekers. In addition,
the
AALAS National Meeting features a Career Center to give attendees a chance
to discuss career opportunities with potential employees or employers.
National Awards. Eight professional and technical awards
for excellence in the field of laboratory animal science are given each year
at the AALAS National Meeting.
Listserves. Join the discussion! Thousands of professionals involved
in the care and use of laboratory animals use our
listserves to get quick answers and talk about issues relating to comparative
medicine, laboratory animal medicine, or biomedical research.
Regional and Branch Meetings. AALAS members also have access to nearly
50 regional and
branch groups that provide networking and educational opportunities close
to where you work and live. Check our calendar for the latest branch
and district meetings.
Member Directory. AALAS members have access to a searchable member directory;
they can also update their directory information online.
Directory information is compiled in the annual AALAS Reference Directory
-- a handy reference tool for members that also contains information about
AALAS products and services and a technical reference section.
Public Outreach. The
AALAS Foundation provides funding for projects to promote the awareness
of biomedical research and its contributions to society. AALAS, through the
Foundation, provides a variety of public outreach tools in the form of flyers,
posters, web sites, videos and DVDs, and classroom materials.
The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science believes that the use
of laboratory animals in scientific and medical research is essential to the
improvement and protection of the quality of all life. The humane and responsible
care of laboratory animals is vital to quality research and, as such, an essential
aspect of AALAS endeavors. AALAS is dedicated to building and disseminating
a knowledge base in laboratory animal science for the education and training
of those who work in this field.
The Code of Ethics for members of AALAS has been adopted by the Board of Trustees
to promote and maintain the highest standards of professional and personal conduct
among its members. Adherence to these standards is required for membership in
the Association and serves to assure public confidence in the integrity and
service of AALAS members.
Maintain the highest standard of personal conduct.
Promote and encourage the highest level of ethics within the
profession of laboratory animal science.
Maintain loyalty to the profession of laboratory animal science
and pursue its objective in ways that are consistent with the public interest.
Recognize and discharge my responsibility and that of my position
to uphold all laws and regulations relating to the profession of laboratory
animal science.
Strive for excellence in all aspects of the profession of laboratory
animal science.
Use only legal and ethical means in all professional activities.
Maintain the confidentiality of privileged information entrusted
or known to me by virtue of my position.
Refuse to engage in, or countenance, activities for personal
gain at the expense of the profession of laboratory animal science.
Always communicate associated internal and external statements
in a truthful and accurate manner.
Cooperate in every reasonable and proper way with others and work with
them in the advancement of the profession of laboratory animal science.
Use every opportunity to improve public understanding of the role of the
profession of laboratory animal science.