Huron IACUC

Why Huron IACUC?

Our current compliance software has served the research community for many years but has reached the end of its lifecycle. Guided by stakeholder feedback from across the program, Texas A&M is moving to Huron IACUC to offer a more stable, intuitive, and compliant environment. 

What this means for researchers

A more reliable and transparent system, a clearer protocol structure that meets IACUC, accrediting body, and federal regulatory expectations, and tools that better support how research and teaching activities are conducted and managed. 

Our goal

A smooth, predictable transition that protects continuity of ongoing projects while positioning investigators to benefit from Huron’s enhanced capabilities. Continuity will be supported through prioritization of uninterrupted protocol coverage and regulatory compliance, and step‑by‑step information will be provided as protocols move into the new structure. Dedicated Animal Welfare Office staff will remain available to answer questions throughout the transition, ensuring consistent guidance and support as the new system is adopted. 

Faculty Advisory Group

To ensure that Huron IACUC deployment supports the way investigators work, a faculty advisory group has been formed. Feedback from this group will directly inform configuration decisions and implementation strategies that minimize disruption to active projects. 

Timeline

Huron IACUC is tentatively projected to go-live in Fall 2026. Animal Use Protocol (AUP) submissions will no longer be accepted in iRIS on or before the go-live date. 

What to Expect Next

As we move closer to launch, investigators will receive targeted updates with timelines, how-to information, and invitations to training opportunities. In the meantime, it is helpful to: 

• Watch for announcements about Huron IACUC implementation timelines and activities 

• Identify key team members who will benefit from early training 

• Determine if projects in the current protocol management system (iRIS) can be closed prior to the transition to Huron IACUC  

Training & Support Resources

The Animal Welfare Program recognizes that learning a new system takes time. On-demand training and resources will be available within the Huron IACUC module for maximum accessibility and on the Animal Welfare Program website. Live training and support will also be available directly from the Animal Welfare Office.  

Benefits of Huron IACUC 

Clarity 

Updated protocol structure 

Protocols in Huron follow a refreshed structure aligned with contemporary regulatory expectations and best practices, making requirements easier to understand and navigate.  

Transparency 

Real time status, inline IACUC and ancillary review comments, and version history all help investigators track what’s needed and when. 

Efficiency 

Faster Submission and Processing 

Guided, section by section protocol authoring with robust instructional help text and smart validation reduces a back-and-forth review process and speeds time to approval. 

Streamlined workflows 

Utilizing plug and play investigator specific or IACUC standard substances and procedures within and across protocols streamlines development and reduces investigator burden and overall review time. 

Support 

Huron IACUC guided user experience 

Built‑in training and guidance, standardized templates for substances and procedures, and robust help text provide clear direction for completing submissions accurately and efficiently. 

Huron is an investment in a more resilient, investigator-centered compliance environment. Partnership across the animal welfare community is appreciated as Texas A&M moves to a system designed to better support high‑quality, compliant research and teaching.