Declaration on Openness on Animal Research

The life sciences sector is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking treatments and cures which transform the lives of humans and animals. To do this we need to increase understanding of normal biological functions and disease.

Where possible, we use cells grown in a lab, computer models and human volunteers. When this is not possible, research may involve animals. When we need to use animals, we strive to use only the lowest number possible to achieve the scientific aims, and seek to develop viable alternatives to animals. 

Public acceptance of the use of animals in research has been strong over the last decade, alongside of increasing public scrutiny.  This has played an essential role in building the world-leading ethical framwork that supports our research and ensures it meets the highest welfare standards, and only using animals where no alternative exists.

Confidence in our research rests on the scientific community embracing an open approach and taking part in an ongoing conversation about why and how animals are used in research and the benefits of this. We need to continue to develop open dialogue between the research community and the public.

We, the undersigned, commit to work together to establish a Concordat that will develop principles of openness, practical steps and measurable objectives which will underpin a more transparent approach to animal research.

The Commitments

Signatories to the Concordat have agreed to be more open about their use of animals in research and to abide by the following four commitments.

Commitment 1: We will be clear about when, how and why we use animals in research

Commitment 2: We will enhance our communications with the media and the public about our research using animals

Commitment 3: We will be proactive in providing opportunities for the public to find out about our research using animals.

Commitment 4: We will report on progress annually and share our experiences

All signatories agree that they will work to fulfill the four Commitments, initiating projects and strategies that are relevant and appropriate to their organisations to be more open about their use of animals in research.  The signatories will be asked to report on their progress in taking these steps.

You can find out more about the Concordat on Openness in Animal Research

 

You can also view the above declaration as a PDF: declaration-on-openness (PDF: 1.12MB)

Find out more about our research involving animals and animal welfare: Centre for Behaviour and Evolution.