University of Cambridge - Animal Welfare Policy

University of Cambridge Animal Welfare Policy The University of Cambridge recognises that research using animals has made, and continues to make, a vital contribution to the fundamental understanding of the biological sciences, and the treatment and cure of human and animal diseases. [...] The key principles governing all our animal research are: a) It is conducted only when it will contribute to the advancement of knowledge that is likely to lead to improvement of the health and welfare of animals or human beings or involves observations that will lead to a greater understanding of the animals themselves. [...] b) It is undertaken on the basis of well-defined scientific objectives and the advancement of knowledge, giving due consideration to the welfare of the animals, minimising the number of animals used in each experiment and avoiding unnecessary duplication. [...] c) The University will actively support the development, validation and adoption of appropriate alternatives to the use of animals, aimed at eliminating the need for animals in research. [...] f) The University of Cambridge considers that the use of animals in research is not a right, but a privilege that must be earned by demonstration of our staff’s commitment to achieving the highest standards of animal welfare and an ongoing commitment to Replacement, Reduction and Refinement.