Animal research accounts for a very small proportion of our medical and scientific research, with most of our research carried out using techniques such as cell and tissue culture, molecular biology, and the study of samples from humans.
We remain committed to the reduction, refinement, and replacement of animals in research wherever possible - the ‘3Rs’- which underpin all related work carried out at the University. We believe that compliance with the law and associated Codes of Practice relating to animal welfare is the minimum operating standard. We have management procedures to ensure that considerations of the 3Rs are embedded into all aspects of our strategic and operational management.
The NC3RS
The National Centre for the Replacement Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3RS) helps the University drive scientific and technological developments that replace, reduce, or refine animal research. Keeping up to date with new policies ensures our research is as robust and reproducible as possible and guarantees we provide the best animal welfare.
We support the ARRIVE (Animal Research: Reporting In Vivo Experiments) Guidelines, which have been developed by the centre to improve standards of reporting and ensure that the data from animal studies can be fully evaluated and utilised by other scientists.
3Rs Committee
This University committee scrutinises research grant proposals involving animal research to ensure that the 3Rs have been adequately applied, and retrospectively reviews research projects with this in mind. They also peer review papers before submission for publication to ensure that the ARRIVE Guidelines have been adhered to. This committee is proactive in the promotion of a culture of 3Rs within the University community, ensuring the effective design of studies, and promotes awareness of alternatives where available.