Introduction

The Appalachian Branch of AALAS is a not-for-profit, educational, 501(c)3 association chartered under the laws of the State of Tennessee. The Appalachian Branch is affiliated with the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS™) and is one of six Branches in AALAS District IV. We are dedicated to the advancement of laboratory animal science primarily through education, training, and information exchange. The ultimate goal being the improvement of both human and animal health. In concert with this aim is the enhancement and development of the careers of our technical support staff members.

The Appalachian Branch of AALAS is comprised of nearly 200 individual, institutional, and commercial members. We are geographically located in middle and east Tennessee, covering Nashville to Knoxville, and the Tri-Cities. Membership is not regionally restricted and anyone professionally concerned with the production, care, and study of laboratory animals is welcome to join. Our primary institutions include; Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee, East Tennessee State University, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Meharry Medical College.

The Appalachian Branch holds quarterly educational meetings each January, April, and July. The meeting is rotated between the major institutions supporting the Branch. The fall quarter meeting is deferred to the annual national AALAS meeting. Each Branch meeting is a one day event comprised of: a morning meeting of the Officers and Board of Directors to carry out the business of the Branch as prescribed in the Constitution and Bylaws; a members luncheon; and an afternoon educational session with invited speakers. The educational session format includes: a basic animal care presentation; a research application involving animals; and a unique facet of animal use such as wildlife study, pet therapy, assistance animals, etc. For Branch event scheduling see our annual calendar.

The Appalachian Branch Newsletter is published quarterly to keep our members apprised of the latest news, techniques, and current events happening in our region and nationally. You will also find advertisements for our Commercial Friends who can provide products, services, and supplies for your research endeavors. A subscription to the newsletter is included in the annual dues. You may receive your newsletter via email or hard copy. A premier member benefit for our technicians is the Appalachian Branch Awards Program.

Thank you for your interest in the Appalachian Branch of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science. For additional information please contact any of the Branch Officers or Board members.