Latest news from the NC3Rs

It was fantastic to see 100 academics, industry representatives and funders laying the foundations for new research relationships at our Business Interaction Voucher (BIV) launch event with the BBSRC. With five weeks left to submit an application to the joint funding scheme, make sure you watch the BIV applicant webinar recording for more information and advice on submitting a competitive application. Thank you to the 200 people who attended our webinar on the Sex Inclusive Research Framework (SIRF) to learn more about common misconceptions around using female and male animals in research and how SIRF can be used by scientists, ethical review bodies and funders – the recording is now available. If you work with laboratory zebrafish and are interested in refining DNA sampling at your institution, you can request a skin swabbing workshop, delivered by experts from the University of Leicester – please get in touch by Friday 14 November. Finally, Dr Natalie Burden, Head of NAMs Strategy, is featured in a Lab Animal article published last week discussing the role of new approach methodologies (NAMs).

Incorporating new approach methodologies into medicines development: Insights from regulators, industry and academia

A new report from the NC3Rs, in collaboration with the ABPI and MHRA, explores how NAMs can transform the way medicines are developed – harnessing cutting edge human-relevant technologies and reducing reliance on animal testing.

Find out more and read the report.

Technology alternatives to animals in life sciences research

Our response to the UK Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) consultation outlines the latest developments in replacement technologies, summarises key barriers to their adoption and describes how the NC3Rs is addressing these, highlighting opportunities for future UK leadership.

Read our POSTnote submission.

Training the next generation of scientists

We were delighted to welcome 12 BBSRC-funded PhD students to our annual summer school this year alongside NC3Rs-funded students. With sessions on communication, experimental design and reporting, alongside opportunities for networking, our training focuses on supporting students in their role as ambassadors for the 3Rs throughout their PhD and beyond.

RSPCA UK Focus on Severe Suffering meeting: Avoiding mortality

Wednesday 5 November, London
With speakers from industry and academia, sessions will cover models of animal and human diseases alongside new technologies to predict mortality. The meeting is open to professionals involved in animal research, including scientists, veterinarians, animal technicians, regulators and members of animal welfare and ethical review bodies. Attendance is free but registration is essential.

Registration closes: Wednesday 29 October.

NAMii webinar series

October 2025 – March 2026
12 NAM information initiatives from across Europe have joined together as ‘NAMii’ to organise a series of monthly webinars to support researchers identify and use new approach methodologies. Sessions will highlight knowledge bases, search engines and digital tools to find information on NAMs effectively and efficiently.

The series starts on Thursday 16 October.

Survey: Compassion fatigue and wellbeing in animal research

A study at Newcastle University is exploring the emotional toll of caring for laboratory animals. Researchers are running an online survey to gather information, experience and perspectives from those working in the UK animal research sector. The survey should take around 15 minutes to complete.

Take the compassion fatigue and wellbeing survey.

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