Nominate someone for a Named Information Officer role
How establishments should apply to nominate someone for a Named Information Officer (NIO) role.
General
This guide describes how establishments should apply to nominate someone for a Named Information Officer (NIO) role.
Inspectors in the Animals in Science Regulation Unit (ASRU) will assess the application and make a decision based on the person’s suitability.
The Named Information Officer role
Every establishment using protected animals in procedures needs to appoint a person to the NIO role. This person will ensure that people dealing with animals have access to information they need about the species held and the procedures carried out at the establishment.
For a full NIO role description, read section 8.10 in the guidance on the operation of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (ASPA).
Before you apply
Before you nominate someone for an NIO role you must ensure:
- they have agreed to be nominated
- they have been added as a user on the Animals in Science Procedures e-Licensing system (ASPeL)
- the establishment licence (PEL) holder (or legally accountable person) supports the nomination
- you can describe how they demonstrate the recommended skills and experience
Recommended training modules
This section sets out the recommended training modules for an NIO role.
You should refer to the module learning outcomes in annex A of the guidance for training and continuous professional development under ASPA. Links for each module part are included below.
L, E1 and E2
Local module
- Introduction to the local environment (section 50)
Read further information on the required knowledge and understanding for an NIO (in the guidance for training and continuous professional development under ASPA).
Skills and experience
In the application, you will need to describe how the nominee demonstrates the following skills and experience:
- a good understanding of legal and ethical aspects of use of animals for scientific purposes (covered by training modules L and E1)
- familiarity with the concept, principles and potential applications of the 3Rs (covered by training module E2)
- expertise in sourcing, retrieving and storing relevant information
- good communication and networking skills
How to apply
Establishments must submit the application in ASPeL.
ASRU will contact you with their decision or if they need more information.
Contact ASRU
If you have any questions, contact asrulicensing@homeoffice.gov.uk.