Lasa is a national organization dedicated to advancing laboratory animal science by promoting the ethical care and use of laboratory animals in biomedical and veterinary research.
The association has been started by a group of dedicated and committed scientists and laboratory animal service personnel who are already working in various capacities in the animal houses of various Government and Private Institutions in the country.
We, as lab animal Scientists, are already aware of the importance of laboratory animal science in biomedical research. Those of us having access to good journals, libraries and Internet have kept ourselves abreast of the developments in the filed. But, a majority of personnel working in the various animal facilities in the country would definitely be interested in gaining more knowledge as much as the others, who have it, would like to share. The reactivation of the CPCSEA under the able stewardship of Mrs. Maneka Gandhi, and the subsequent enforcement of CPCSEA rules and regulations had brought laboratory animal welfare and the lab animal personnel to the forefront. The impetus to lab animals during the last 3-4 years and the experience gained by most of us during the inspections and enforcements period has made most of us wise. We need to consolidate on the opportunity provided to us by coming together and sharing our knowledge and experiences.
Aims:
- To promote and coordinate the development of laboratory animal science throughout our country.
- To promote quality definitions and monitoring of laboratory animals in our country.
- To collect and disseminate information on laboratory animals.
- To promote nation wide harmonization in the care and use of laboratory animals.
- To promote the humane use of animals in research through recognition of ethical principles and scientific responsibilities.
- To promote and encourage researchers to follow '3R' principles of Russell and Burch
The Objectives of the Association
a) To provide a platform to scientists working with laboratory animal to exchange and share knowledge on science of animal care and use.
b) To take initiatives to generate awareness of research animal care and use among the animal scientists.
c) To provide update on zoonotic diseases.
d) Generate human resource for animal houses by improving the communication and resources in laboratory animal science by publishing newsletters and or Journal to promote and/or impart latest advances in the field to its members and others.
e) To provide informational and advisory resources to government agencies and other organizations on issues related to laboratory animal management, ethics, zoonoses and health.
f) To encourage professional courses in laboratory animal science and provide guidance for career development.
g) Primarily focus on five aspects: Animal Management, Animal Health, Genetic Monitoring, Animal data generation and Alternatives to Animal Experiments.
h) To promote the issue of 4 'R's (Reduction, Replacement, Refinement and Rehabilitation).
i) To develop and maintain the highest standards of professional competence and conduct and encourage improvement of professional knowledge.
j) To work with other professional organizations on matters of mutual and public concern.
k) To support research in the continuing effort to improve animal care and health.
l) Recognize and encourage outstanding accomplishments by scientists and keep its members informed about current activities and concerns of the society and the profession.
m) To enhance the professional knowledge of its members in the field of laboratory animal science and welfare by holding seminars, lectures, conferences and training programs.