We are a Leader in Openness We have been named a Leader in Openness by Understanding Animal Research. Find out what this means:Sector-leading award for animal research openness Animal Research - an introduction video Animal research plays a vital role in understanding health and disease, which is crucial for developing new therapies for people and animals.We use alternatives where possible but, at present, some research questions can only be answered using animals. Where animals cannot be replaced, we try to reduce the number we use to get a scientifically valid answer and refine the techniques to minimise the impact on the animals. More than 95 per cent of the animals we use in research are rodents and fish. We also use a number of farm animals, including chickens, sheep, cows and pigs, and a small number of wild animals. All of our animal research is carried out in accordance with UK law, under strict Home Office regulations. Latest news on University animal research Artificial blood vessels could improve heart bypass outcomesSquirrelpox virus spreads north of central ScotlandBees use antennae to decode hive mates’ dances Facts and figures Why we use animals in research, alternatives to using animals and how many animals are used. Regulation Strict laws control the use of animals in research. Animal welfare and ethics High standards of animal welfare underpin all of our research. Alternatives and improvements We aim to replace, reduce and refine the use of animals in research. FAQs Frequently asked questions about the use of animals in research. Opportunities to engage We provide a number of opportunities for members of the public to find out more about our research involving animals. This article was published on 2024-11-12