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Caribbean Primate Research Center
cprc.rcm@upr.edu
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Communications Policy of the Caribbean Primate Research Center (CPRC) Affiliated with the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus (Versión en español aquí)
The CPRC recognizes the importance of open, clear, and fact-based communication to foster public understanding of our research and its positive impact on global health. To ensure effective and responsible interaction with the public, media, and other stakeholders, the CPRC establishes the following communication policy:
1. Promotion of Education and Transparency
The CPRC is committed to sharing accurate information about ongoing research as part of its educational mission. These research efforts, conducted within our facilities, aim to improve human and animal health by addressing critical questions about diseases, treatments, and well-being.
a. Shared data will align with best practices and institutional policies to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and accuracy of scientific information.
b. The CPRC actively disseminates the impact of its research through scientific journals, public events, and educational platforms, always adhering to federal confidentiality and intellectual property regulations.
2. Compliance with Standards and Regulations
All research conducted at the CPRC is largely funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and adheres to strict guidelines:
a. International and Federal Standards: Research complies with federal laws and regulations, including the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and guidelines from the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW).
b. Ethical Review and Accreditation: The CPRC is fully accredited by AAALAC International, reflecting its commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare. This accreditation was recently renewed for three years.
c. Research protocols are reviewed and approved by an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), ensuring that the use of non-human primates is ethical, justified, and scientifically valid.
3. Limitations on Participation in Philosophical Discussions
The CPRC maintains a policy of neutrality regarding philosophical or ideological discussions related to the use of animals in research.
a. Our mission is to provide evidence-based data and highlight the value of our research for public health, leaving philosophical debates to more appropriate forums.
b. Media outlets are required to respect this approach and adhere to established parameters to maintain the objectivity and integrity of communications.
4. Handling of Information Requests and Interviews
The CPRC is committed to responsible access to information, adhering to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) where applicable.
a. Processing of Requests: Information requests must be submitted in writing and will be evaluated to ensure compliance with confidentiality, intellectual property, and security regulations.
b. Media Interviews: The Press Office of the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, in collaboration with the CPRC, will evaluate interview requests on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that media comply with the following requirements:
i. Respect the neutrality policy of the RCM and CPRC.
ii. Guarantee an objective and educational approach in their reports.
iii. Comply with pre-agreed guidelines.
5. Protection of Personnel and Facility Security
To safeguard the security of our personnel, animals, and facilities, the CPRC:
a. Will not disclose information that could compromise operational or employee security.
b. Will limit physical access to facilities to authorized visits approved by the CPRC management.
c. Will monitor public communications to ensure that disseminated information is accurate and does not misrepresent the work conducted at the CPRC.
6. Monitoring and Updating the Policy
This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure alignment with best practices, new regulations, and emerging needs of the CPRC and its collaborators.
The Caribbean Primate Research Center reaffirms its commitment to science, ethics, and responsible communication as fundamental pillars for building trust with our communities and promoting significant advances in global health.