Purdue Center for Animal Welfare Science seeking new members as strategic planning process nears

In anticipation of beginning its strategic planning process, the Purdue University Center for Animal Welfare Science (CAWS) is issuing a second call for membership. Membership applications are accepted at any time; however, for participation in strategic planning, membership must be established by Nov. 11.

Purdue faculty currently engaged or interested in the sciences of animal welfare are invited to join CAWS. Members will be instrumental in providing insight and direction essential for the center to grow and achieve its members' collective vision, values and expectations, says Candace Croney, director of CAWS and associate professor of animal behavior and well-being. 

Building on a long history of excellence in the study of farm animal well-being, CAWS seeks to expand its scope of species coverage and expertise to include farm, lab, zoo, and companion animals and facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations on animal welfare science, Croney says. CAWs is a Provost's Office initiative funded jointly by the colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine.

Becoming a member will increase the visibility and collective impact of members' current scientific efforts on animal welfare via advancement of educational opportunities, innovation in problem-solving and contribution to informed decision-making and policy planning, Croney says. Members are eligible for seed funding opportunities, student and faculty fellowships, and to attend CAWS sponsored symposia, retreats and other collaborative opportunities. 

Members are strongly encouraged to collaborate with other CAWS investigators and to participate in CAWS-sponsored events.

To apply for membership, send a completed membership application and CV (Word or PDF files) to Melissa Schwartz at lanem@purdue.edu. The application is available at www.ansc.purdue.edu/CAWS/membership.htm.

For more information, visit www.ansc.purdue.edu/CAWS/index.htm.