The University of Chicago, one of the nation's leading private universities, was founded in 1890. The University of Chicago consists of four graduate academic divisions (Biological Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Division, Social Sciences Division, and Humanities Division) and the undergraduate college. Professional schools at the University of Chicago include: Pritzker School of Medicine, Law School, Divinity School, School of Social Service Administration, Harris Graduate School of Public Policy Studies, Booth School of Business, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, and more than 140 centers and institutes.

There are approximately 216 principal investigators and over 450 active animal care and use protocols at The University. Research activities span a multitude of scientific interests, but with significant program areas focusing on cancer, diabetes, digestive diseases, immunology, and neurosciences.

The University employs five full-time veterinarians whodedicate 100% of their time to the animal care and use program. Their institutional role and responsibilities include providing research support, clinical care (preventative and emergency) and administrative oversight (husbandry, animal procurement and transportation) to the animal care and use program. Their research support involves training and consultation on handling and restraint, anesthetics, analgesics, methods of euthanasia, surgical and post-surgical care, and psychological well-being. All of the veterinarians are involved in regulatory support to the animal care and use program through working with IACUC, IBC (Institutional Biosafety Committee) and other safety committees at the institution.