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This Copy Was Generated On: June 6, 2026
Policy on the Review and Approval of IACUC Mandated Pilot Studies
Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee
| Approval Date:
June 1, 2026 12:00 pm
Summary of Changes
- Edited the information in the Applicability and the Compliance sections to match the policy template.
Who Is Impacted
Researchers
Impact
Review of updated information as it is relevant to your duties.
Purpose
This policy defines the process for reviewing, approving, and following-up on pilot studies required by the U-M’s Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC) before proposed activities can be initiated.
Applicability
This policy is applicable to all animal activities conducted under the auspices of the University and applies to all locations under the purview of the U-M IACUC.
Definitions
- Pilot study – for the purpose of this policy, a pilot study is a preliminary “…study used to test proposed research protocols, data collection instruments, sample recruitment strategies, and other research techniques in preparation for a larger study,”1 and may be required by the IACUC before proposed research can be approved
- Full Committee Review (FCR) – review at a convened meeting of a quorum of the IACUC
Policy
When pilot studies are required by the IACUC before research can be initiated, the associated IACUC protocol application(s) must be reviewed using the FCR process.
During deliberation, the IACUC may define the pilot study design, the number of animals to be involved, and the level of oversight required (e.g., veterinary involvement). The results of the pilot study must be provided in a report to the IACUC before the proposed research can begin.
Compliance
The provisions of this policy are under the direction and oversight of the U-M’s IACUC. The IACUC will, if necessary, suspend research or implement sanctions if policy infractions should occur.
Footnotes
- Hassan ZA, Schattner P, and Mazza D. Doing A Pilot Study: Why Is It Essential? Malays Fam Physician. 2006; 1(2-3): 70–73 (PMID: 27570591)
Questions?
For questions, additional detail, or to request changes to this policy, please contact the Office of the Assistant Vice President for Research – Director of the Animal Care & Use Office at [email protected] or (734) 763-8028.