Canadian Association for Laboratory Animal Science

The Canadian Association for Laboratory Animal Science (CALAS), a not-for-profit membership association was formed in 1962 with a vision to elevate the standards of laboratory animal science and to enhance animal well being and excellence in science. They embarked on a goal to work towards the elimination of inhumane and unnecessary use of animals in research. The CALAS mission is to advance the knowledge, skills and status of those who care for and use laboratory animals, to improve the standards of animal care in research and to provide a forum for the exchange and dissemination of knowledge regarding care and research. Membership consists of approximately 900 members comprised of veterinarians, physicians, researchers, administrators and technicians. The national office is located in Toronto, ON.[1]

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Annual Symposium

Each spring since 1962, the Canadian Association for Laboratory Animal Science has held its annual national Symposium. The CALAS Symposium is the premier networking and educational event for the laboratory animal science community in Canada. It is an exciting event that brings members and non-members from various organizations together for four days of knowledge building workshops, lively discussions, detailed demonstrations and valuable networking. Eleven professional and technical awards for prestigious recognition in the field of laboratory animal science are presented each year at the CALAS Annual Symposium. The CALAS Annual Symposium is the only laboratory animal conference held each year in Canada and attracts more than 400 members from the industry.[2]

Publications

The Member’s Magazine serves as an official communication tool for CALAS. The magazine, published bi-monthly, includes referred articles, case studies and association news. The CALAS Member’s Magazine is sent to all members, targeting individuals involved in research utilizing animals, which includes pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, universities and more. The magazine also reaches teaching institutions where students are pursing animal related careers, such as Veterinary Science and Animal Health Technology. The content of the magazine is varied to satisfy the animal care assistant, animal/veterinary technician, scientist, veterinarian and administrative personnel.

Membership

CALAS membership has many benefits which include involvement in an organization committed to the well being of animals in research, as well as exposure to a vast network of other individuals with similar interests, nationwide. CALAS is committed to offering a first-class educational forum for laboratory animal science. Members can take advantage of the advanced resources and current information for career advancements, higher quality animal care, continued education, networking, and self-satisfaction.[3]

There are several different types of CALAS memberships available.

Non-Registered Membership Types do not require specific qualifications and are open to all those interested in the animal laboratory sciences industry.

Institutional Membership

Membership for institutions wishing to participate in efforts to improve the scientific quality of animal research and educational standards of animal care personnel. Institutional Membership includes two National membership cards for named representatives.

National Membership

National Association Membership for individuals

Student Membership

Membership offered at a reduced rate for students enrolled in a recognized educational institution. Canadian Recognized Designations

Registered Membership Types require specific qualifications.

The CALAS Registry Committee certifies technicians to ensure the highest quality care possible for laboratory animals. The certification process includes both a written exam and an oral exam, based on study guides and reference materials provided to eligible applicants. [4]

Registered Technicians

A Registered Laboratory Animal Technician has an animal science education, specific training in the care and use of laboratory animals and on the job practical experience. Continued development of this expertise enables him/her to obtain the knowledge base and practical competency required to meet the high standards set by the CALAS Registry.

ARLAT: Associate Registered Laboratory Animal Technician These individuals have several years of experience in the field and a keen interest in continuing their education. An ARLAT is trained specifically with regards to the care and use of laboratory animals.

RLAT: Registered Laboratory Animal Technician The Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLAT) and Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (Research) (RLAT(R)) are equivalent designations. The different designations represent two different streams rather than levels. The RLAT is employed by an animal facility, he/she has an animal science education, specific training in the care and use of laboratory animals and on the job practical experience. Continued development of this expertise enables him/her to obtain the knowledge base and practical competency required to meet the high standards set by the CALAS Registry examinations

RLAT(R): Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (Research) The RLAT(R) typically works for one researcher as opposed to being employed by an animal facility. This person is very focused in one area of research and usually works with only one or two species of animals. This person has a very in depth knowledge about their research project and the particular animal species they are working with. Their knowledge includes understanding how animal husbandry, the environment, and the operation of an animal facility affect their particular research.

RMLAT: Registered Master Laboratory Animal Technician The Master’s achievement is the highest level of Registration. Successful candidates possess a broad-based knowledge of most laboratory animal species, their care, management and use in varied research protocols. Typically RMLAT's are in supervisory positions or are candidates for such positions. They are able to compile facts, analyze the consequences of different approaches to any given animal research related problem and apply their knowledge in problem-solving and decision-making situations.

RMLAT(R): Registered Master Laboratory Animal Technician (Research) The background is similar to the RMLAT Registration but is applied to those individuals who have been involved primarily with specific laboratory animal species and projects. The individual has a thorough laboratory animal science knowledge base enabling her/him to be a major contributor to a successful research program. He/she is well versed in the anatomy, physiology, diseases and needs of the animal species he/she works with. She/he understands how the operations of the animal facility can affect her/his daily work and the outcome of her/his particular projects.

Continuing Education

Registered members must earn 10 continuing education (CE) credits per calendar year. CALAS continuing education credits are based on CALAS events. CALAS encourages education from other associations such as LAMA, CAAHTT, AALAS, etc.[5]

References

1. CALAS (http://www.calas-acsal.org/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1)
2. Member's Magazine (http://www.calas-acsal.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=29&Itemid=55)
3. Symposium (http://symposium.calas-acsal.org/ContentPage.aspx?name=CALAS-ACSAL)
4. Membership (http://www.calas-acsal.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=14&Itemid=36)
5. Technician (http://www.calas-acsal.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24&Itemid=50)