Overview

The Animal Research Ethics Committee (AREC) is an ethics committee dedicated to the ethical review of all animal-related research at the University of the Free State. It is comprised of members from various fields relating to animal care and studies (Zoologists, Veterinarians, animal care providers, etc.). This committee is focused on research that makes use of both vertebrate and invertebrate animals. Just as human participants are privy to rights, so are animals, and it is with this in mind that ethical behavior is to be maintained where animals are concerned.  AREC ensures that every possible care is taken before approving studies on animals. The AREC's scope of functioning is not limited to researchers affiliated with animal-specific departments.  If a psychology researcher were to research the resilience levels of people with dog companions, that study would also have to be reviewed by AREC to ensure that both the human participants and animal participants are treated in an ethically sound manner.  

Composition

• Chair
• Vice Chair
• Veterinarian
• Animal-Welfare Consultant
• Animal Scientist
• Consultant
• Adviser
• Bio-Statistician
• Members from various departments relating to animal studies