In the UK, the use of animals in experiments is regulated by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act (1986)/EU Directive 2010/63/EU, operated by the Home Office. Under this law, all breeding and use of animals have to be carried out in licensed premises, under a project reviewed and authorised by the Home Office (project licence) by an individual licensed and qualified to do so.
Further information on the licensing can be found on the Home Office website.
Can I apply for my Personal or Project Licence before commencing employment/studies at the University of Plymouth?
Project Licence and Personal Licence applications are made using the Home Office e-licensing system ASPeL.
Access is through the University of Plymouth Home Office liaison contact and so you need to be a current member of staff or registered student of the University of Plymouth.
All applications are also subject to the University of Plymouth Ethical Review process.
However, training courses for Personal Licences may be undertaken prior to commencing employment and are available from several providers.
Further information on appropriate courses and providers can be obtained by contacting NamedInformationOfficer@plymouth.ac.uk.
I'm coming to the University of Plymouth from overseas – how soon will I be able to start my animal work?
This would be dependent on variables such as the status of your current training and whether you wish to import animals from a current project overseas.
For further information and to discuss your particular circumstances please contact NamedInformationOfficer@plymouth.ac.uk.
Can I transfer my Personal Licence/Project Licence from my current UK University to the University of Plymouth?
Once you have commenced employment/studies your current Personal Licence/Project Licence can be transferred via the ASpeL system. Project licences will be subject to review by the University Ethical Review process.
For further information and to discuss your particular circumstances please contact NamedInformationOfficer@plymouth.ac.uk.
I have Local Ethics Approval at my current UK/overseas University – can I transfer it to the University of Plymouth?
It may be possible to transfer your current Local Ethics Approval through the University of Plymouth Ethical Review process.
For further information and to discuss your project please contact NamedInformationOfficer@plymouth.ac.uk.