Training
The Laboratory Animal Care Unit regularly provides training that includes facility orientations and didactic information and hands-on practice in rodent handling, basic rodent procedures and aseptic surgical technique.
Facilities Orientation
LACU facility orientations and tours are completed on an as needed basis. New research personnel should contact Leadra Williford at (901) 448-1429 or ledwar17@uthsc.edu for instructions on completing the LACU Orientation and facility tour. Once the orientation and tour have been completed access to the facility will be requested with Campus Police.
Rodent Hands-On Training
Training classes in rodent handling and basic techniques are offered on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am and the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 9:30 am. Â All training sessions are held in the Coleman animal facility, Room B103. The calendar for this course for the remainder of 2025 is:
| 1st Tuesday of the Month at 10:00 am | 3rd Wednesday of the Month at 9:30 am |
|
July 1 |
July 16 |
| August 5 | August 20 |
| September 2 | September 17 |
| October 7 | October 15 |
| November 4 | November 19 |
| December 2 | December 17 |
Aseptic Technique Training
Training classes in aseptic surgical technique are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am. This course consists of a lecture followed by a hands-on lab and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. All training sessions meet in the Coleman animal facility, room B106. The calendar for this course for the remainder of 2025 is:
| 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 10:00 am |
| July 8 |
| August 12 |
| September 9 |
| October 14 |
| November 11 |
| December 9 |
To attend a Rodent Hands-On Training session or an Aseptic Technique session, please submit a . Please note that enrollment in the UTHSC Occupational Health program is required before attending a hands-on training session.
Research Protocol Specific Training
The LACU veterinary team is also available for more specific or tailored training, especially with regards to our . Please contact one of the veterinarians or veterinary technicians if you would like training or further information related to these SOPs.