As a publicly funded institution, UMass Chan Medical School has a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of oversight, transparency, and accountability in its research programs.

Recent complaints filed with federal and state agencies raise serious concerns about animal research oversight practices at UMass Chan. These allegations involve potential animal welfare issues and possible conflicts of interest within the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), the body responsible for ensuring compliance with federal and state animal protection regulations.

When concerns are raised about research oversight, especially at a public university, the response must be clear and credible.

This petition calls on UMass Chan Chancellor Michael F. Collins and the University of Massachusetts Board of Trustees to initiate an independent, external investigation into the university’s animal research oversight structure and compliance procedures. The review should examine whether existing safeguards adequately prevent conflicts of interest, whether IACUC leadership structures are appropriate, and whether oversight mechanisms are functioning as intended.

Transparency is essential to maintaining public trust.

UMass Chan should also commit to publishing regular, accessible reports detailing animal welfare compliance findings, corrective actions, and oversight reforms. Public universities operate with taxpayer funding and public confidence. The community deserves clear information about how research protocols are reviewed and how concerns are addressed.

This petition does not presume wrongdoing. Instead, it seeks independent verification, procedural clarity, and strengthened public accountability. An external review would help ensure that animal welfare regulations are fully enforced and that institutional governance structures align with best practices in research ethics.

Strong oversight protects animals, researchers, and the integrity of the university itself.

We urge UMass Chan leadership to act proactively by commissioning an independent investigation and implementing enhanced transparency measures.

Sign this petition to demand independent review and stronger public accountability in animal research oversight at UMass Chan Medical School.