Training
The Laboratory Animal Care Unit provides training that includes facility orientations and didactic information and hands-on practice in rodent handling, basic rodent procedures and aseptic surgical technique.
Facilities Orientation
LACU facility orientations and tours are scheduled on an as-needed basis. To receive instructions for completing the LACU orientation and facility tour, please contact Leadra Williford at 901-448-1429 or ledwar17@uthsc.edu. After the orientation and tour are completed, access to the facility will be requested through Campus Police.
Rodent Hands-On Training
Training classes in rodent handling and basic techniques are offered on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am and the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 9:30 am. All training sessions are held in the Coleman animal facility, Room B103.
COURSE CALENDAR FOR 2026
| 1st Tuesday of the Month at 10:00 am | 3rd Wednesday of the Month at 9:30 am |
|
January 6 |
January 21 |
| February 3 | February 18 |
| March 3 | March 18 |
| April 7 | April 15 |
| May 5 | May 20 |
| June 2 | June 17 |
| July 7 | July 15 |
| August 4 | August 19 |
| September 1 | September 16 |
| October 6 | October 21 |
| November 3 | November 18 |
| December 1 | December 16 |
Aseptic Technique Training
Training classes in aseptic surgical technique are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am. This 2-hour course consists of a lecture followed by a hands-on lab. All training sessions meet in the Coleman animal facility, room B106.
COURSE CALENDAR FOR 2026
| 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 10:00 am |
| January 13 |
| February 10 |
| March 10 |
| April 14 |
| May 12 |
| June 9 |
| July 14 |
| August 11 |
| September 8 |
| October 13 |
| November 10 |
| December 8 |
To attend a Rodent Hands-On Training session or an Aseptic Technique session, please submit a registration form. Enrollment in the UT Health Science Center Occupational Health program is required to attend.
Research Protocol Specific Training
The LACU veterinary team is available for more specific or tailored training, especially with regards to our Policies and Standard Operating Procedures. Please contact one of the veterinarians or veterinary technicians if you would like training or further information related to these SOPs.