IVT Course

Overview

The In Vivo Techniques (IVT) course is a 3-credit, intensive Experiential Learning (EL) program designed to equip students with essential skills in laboratory rodent techniques commonly used in research. This course offers hands-on experience and proficiency in handling, restraint, blood collection, dosing, and various surgical procedures. It is an excellent opportunity for students aiming for careers in research, veterinary medicine, or laboratory animal science.

Course Structure

• Format: Combination of lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions.
• Instructors: Laboratory animal professionals from Rutgers University.

Key Skills and Topics Covered

• Non-aversive handling and restraint techniques
• Syringe and equipment handling
• Blood collection and fluid administration
• Identification methods
• Euthanasia
• Breeding, weaning
• Both minor and major surgical procedures
• Introduction to 3Rs concepts, laboratory animal diseases, health surveillance, and transgenic animals

Digital Credentialing

Students who complete the IVT course successfully will earn an academic digital badge from Rutgers University, verified through Accredible®. This badge enhances hire ability and can be added to LinkedIn profiles, showcasing the mastery of skills learned during the course.

Who Should Enroll?

This course is ideal for undergraduate students with a background in biology or laboratory-focused sciences, particularly those considering careers in research, veterinary medicine, or laboratory animal science. A prerequisite for this course is the completion of 11:067:275 (Laboratory Animal Science: Management and Techniques), although this requirement may be waived for students with prior lab animal experience.

Student Testimonials

"This class totally changed my whole experience as an animal science student. I would recommend this class to every…student in Rutgers."

"The format of the course fits the diverse ways students learn: audible, hands-on, and visual. In Vivo Techniques was the highlight of my day."

"This course was an environment that revealed my strengths and future potential to pursue veterinary medicine."

"The In Vivo Techniques course was an incredible experience and I am beyond grateful to the facilitators, veterinarians, the animal care team, and the animals we worked with. This extraordinary team provided an unparalleled learning experience, and my fellow students and I left feeling confident in our ability to safely work with lab animals."

Contact Information

Instructors

• Mariel Nigro: mn496@rutgers.edu
• Dr. Lauren Bright

For SPN

• SEBS Undergraduate Program Director: Dr. Aparna Zama: zama@rutgers.edu