International Association of Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine

The International Association of Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine (IACLAM) is a nonprofit organization that serves as a global alliance of national and regional Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine. The association brings together prominent veterinary colleges, including the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM), European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ECLAM), Japanese College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (JCLAM), Korean College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (KCLAM), and the Indian College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ICLAM), as well as one Associate Member College[4].

Purpose and Objectives

IACLAM's primary goal is to promote the welfare and responsible use of laboratory animals through the certification and education of specialists worldwide. It aims to harmonize training and certification standards across its member colleges, ensuring consistency and high-quality care for laboratory animals by defining and disseminating best practices[1][2]. Additionally, IACLAM seeks to support the development of new Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine in regions where they do not yet exist, enabling global advancements in animal care and research[1].

Activities and Initiatives

IACLAM facilitates global communication and resource sharing among its member colleges to enhance the expertise and standards of laboratory animal veterinarians. It has conducted in-depth reviews of the training and certification processes across its member colleges to develop a framework for global harmonization. A key tool in this effort is the Role Delineation Document (RDD), which outlines the knowledge and skills required for new diplomats in laboratory animal medicine, aligning with the needs of current biomedical research[1].

IACLAM also engages with broader scientific and legislative communities to address global trends impacting animal research and welfare. It participates in and organizes conferences such as the upcoming World Meeting for Laboratory Animal Veterinarians in 2025, focusing on topics like training, ethics, and advancements in animal care practices[5].

Membership and Governance

Membership in IACLAM is open to organized national or regional Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine. These colleges appoint representatives to serve on the IACLAM Board, which oversees the association's activities and strategic direction[4]. Other members may participate in specific initiatives based on their expertise.

Impact

By promoting global standards and harmonization, IACLAM plays a crucial role in ensuring high-quality animal care, advancing research capabilities, and supporting international collaborations in biomedical sciences. Its efforts contribute to optimizing animal welfare and the responsible use of laboratory animals, aligning with evolving ethical and legislative frameworks[2][5].

[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8786378/ [2] https://eclam.eu/home/pre-diploma/iaclam-diplomates/ [3] https://www.iaclam.org [4] https://webapp.net.in/iaclam/demo1/mem-become-member.php [5] https://www.felasa2025.eu/programme/iaclam-day/