In 1971, three leading universities (Chulalongkorn University, Kasetsart University, and Mahidol University) in Thailand came together to study the issues regarding laboratory animal resources for research within the nation. It was decided to establish in Mahidol University, Salaya campus, a facility to supply appropriate laboratory animals. The WHO/UNDP supplied help and needed expertise in the early phases of development. In 1980, the breeding program produced its first animals for research. Over a period of 13 years, the facility has evolved to become the National Laboratory Animal Center. This official designation was granted by the National Committee of Economics and Social Development of Thailand in 1987. The mission statement of the NLAC-MU is to breed and supply laboratory animals. The center endeavors to maintain the highest possible quality standards in order to serve the needs of the research and educational community in Thailand.

The center is able to meet any request for gender, age, size, and number of listed breeds (see Customer Service), while maintaining health and genetic quality control. In addition to meeting our mission statement, the center has expanded it’s services to include the training of animal caretakers, research and educational services in laboratory animal sciences, and a laboratory animal information center. NLAC-MU is in the forefront of efforts in Thailand to establish humane treatment protocols in the use of laboratory animals that reflect international standards. These services and efforts reflect the on-going mission of the center to be an integral part of the research community in Thailand.