Since modern laboratory animal science was recognized over 60 years ago, it has faced the challenge of responding to the demands for improved standards of operation, validation and animal care from biomedical research community, regulators, and society in general. More recent challenges require that laboratory animal facilities operate efficiently; using sustainable practices and provides a safe working environment. Also, animal based research and care increasingly involve new and frequently complex technologies. These challenges call for dedicated, well trained laboratory animal science professionals who are continuously engaged in industry specific training; professional development and implementing best practice.

The Fondazione Guido Bernardini (FGB) was constituted on 21st of April 2009 to assist in meeting the need for continuous, post qualification, professional training and development in laboratory animal science. The FGB was formed thanks to the personal generosity of Carlo and Maria Luisa Bernardini and Renato Giuliani and in the memory Guido Bernardini, a much loved relative and physician who died of cancer.

The Fondazione Guido Bernardini is based in two centers near Milan, Italy with the following objectives:

• Promote and co-ordinate training programs and research projects relating to safety and ergonomics in laboratory animal facilities
• Promote and co-ordinate studies and projects pertaining to standards of hygiene and husbandry enhancements
• Co-operate and partner with associations and institutes operating in the laboratory animal field
• Promote and spread automation technologies through the initiatives of the Leonardo Automation Club

The Fondazione Guido Bernardini will function as an independent, nonprofit, educational foundation devoted to supporting research projects and technical training programs in laboratory animal facility management and technology. The management will be supported by a five member Scientific Panel, drawn from the international community and an independent Board of Directors.

The foundation will offer short courses, symposia and e-learning programs for laboratory animal science professionals. FGB programs are intended to provide post qualification training and continual professional development that complements existing national training programs. The training faculty is drawn from international experts in the field of laboratory animal science and associated disciplines.

Another objective of the foundation is to increase industry awareness of the application of emerging technologies, such as automation and data management, which can reduce operating costs and improve human health and safety in laboratory animal facilities. This will be done in collaboration with the Leonardo Automation Club, a specific international forum bringing together professionals who share similar experiences and interests on innovation through automation and emerging technologies.

The FGB program opens in the autumn of 2009, offering a series of courses emphasizing current industry issues and providing hands on experience to develop individual knowledge, skills and competencies. The initial program includes courses on;

• Washing processes in laboratory animal facilities
• Disinfection and sterilization in laboratory animal facilities
• Essential Organization & Procedures in the modern laboratory animal facility
• Health Monitoring of mice and rats in IVC equipped facilities

For further information on available courses or the foundation go to:

Source: fondazioneguidobernardini.org