At Imperial College London, researchers and staff constantly look for alternatives to animal models. However, it is not always possible to avoid them. Nevertheless, where there is no valid alternative yet, it is essential to remember why animal models matter and strive to find ways to improve current practices. Here is a selection showing why animal models are still vital in some research fields at Imperial College London and what our researchers and staff do to improve current practices.
Our 3Rs researchers stories
Working together to defeat COVID-19
It is not always possible to avoid using animal models in research. The COVID-19 Pandemic was an example of why animal models still matter. At the forefront of the worldwide scientific forces striving to find a vaccine, Imperial researchers relied on animal models to find an effective vaccine quickly. In this article, they explain how animal models played a vital role in the fight against the virus.
Do you feel inspired from these stories? Check out more examples to understand why animal research matters.
Our 3Rs PhD Students stories
Biodistribution of LNP-mRNA using fluorescence-fLuciferase fusion proteins.
When it is impossible to avoid animal models, it is always important to improve current practices. The 3Rs Hub nurtures future scientists, encouraging them to apply the 3Rs in their work. This poster, presented at the Animal Research Forum 2024, explains how Imperial researchers are working to implement the 3Rs in vaccine technologies.
Do you feel inspired by these stories? Check out more educational materials for researchers and support staff to learn how to improve current practices in animal research. More Imperial 3Rs PhD students’ project examples are in the 3Rs PhD Examples section.
Our 3Rs Network
The Fascinating World of Developmental Biology
Imperial researchers and staff collaborate worldwide to improve human health and progress the 3Rs. We are proud of our connections and believe collaboration is the only way forward. In this video, the British Society for Developmental Biology (BSDB) explains why animal models to improve our understanding of developmental biology are helpful for human health.
Do you feel inspired from this video? Look at the fundings and awards opportunities available both at Imperial and from our network.