Meet Lisa Snider
Lisa Snider, CPIA | Director, Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee
Lisa Snider, CPIA, serves as director of Purdue University’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), bringing more than four decades of experience to the university’s animal care and use program. As part of Purdue’s broader Scientific Integrity and Research Compliance efforts, Lisa helps researchers understand and navigate the institutional, state, and federal requirements governing the responsible and humane use of vertebrate animals in research, teaching, and testing.
Lisa and the IACUC team guide investigators through animal-use protocol development, review, and approval, while providing ongoing education and support throughout the research process. Their work helps protect animal welfare, strengthen research integrity, and ensure that Purdue research involving vertebrate animals is conducted responsibly and in accordance with applicable policies and regulations.
Supporting Research Involving Vertebrate Animals
What is one thing you wish researchers knew—or did earlier—when planning a project involving vertebrate animals?
I wish faculty would meet briefly with the Attending Veterinarian and me so we could learn about their research or teaching needs. We could then advise them on how we can best support their efforts. Researchers often think of IACUC as a required approval step, but we are also a resource. Engaging with us early creates opportunities to address questions, discuss options, and support the project from the beginning.
“The earlier we understand your research goals, the better we can help you navigate requirements and support your success.” –Lisa Snider, CPIA
A Few Questions with Lisa
What is something you could give a 10-minute presentation on with absolutely no preparation?
The responsibilities of the IACUC and Laboratory Animal Program, and how they work together.
If you could instantly become an expert in something unrelated to your job, what would it be?
How to be a social services advocate for the elderly. Helping older adults navigate healthcare, housing, and community resources would be a meaningful way to make a difference.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Never, ever, come to a meeting unprepared.” That advice came from Roger Maickel, past IACUC chair and professor emeritus of pharmacology and toxicology.
What was your very first job?
My first job was in Purdue’s Aviation Technology Program, helping students maintain their flight logs to ensure they completed their required flight hours. This was in 1984–85. I then transferred to Purdue’s Department of Audiology and Speech Sciences, where I worked for four years before joining Purdue’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee in 1990.
Planning Research or Teaching Involving Vertebrate Animals?
Connecting with the IACUC and Attending Veterinarian early can help you understand requirements, anticipate potential concerns, and plan an appropriate path forward. Explore Purdue’s IACUC resources or schedule a consultation to discuss how the team can support your research or teaching needs.