Animal Research Policy Statement

The University of Leeds is an internationally renowned research institution at the heart of the global research and innovation community. We are committed to delivering fundamental, transformational and challenge-led research that advances knowledge and addresses major issues facing our world.

Our research investigates the biological and physiological principles that underpin human and animal function in both health and disease. We aim to translate these findings into clinical and societal benefit by improving the health and welfare of humans and animals.

Animal research at Leeds plays a vital role in driving progress in understanding, treating, and curing a wide range of health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes and mental illness, thereby reducing unnecessary suffering and improving quality of life. Research also involves deepening our understanding of the animals themselves with the aim of improving animal health and welfare.

All research involving animals is conducted within a strict framework of legal and ethical controls. Before any animal work can begin, it must be considered by the University's Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body (AWERB).

Any procedure that may cause pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm equivalent to or greater than a needle stick must also be licensed by the Home Office Animals in Science Regulation Unit (ASRU), in accordance with the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986.

Researchers are required to undertake appropriate education, training, supervision, and competency assessment before performing procedures involving animals.

We are committed to the principles of replacement, reduction, and refinement (the 'three Rs') in all research involving animals. We use alternatives wherever possible, including computer modelling, tissue culture, cell and molecular biology, and research with human volunteers.

We are also actively involved in developing new alternatives to animal use. However, in some cases, these methods cannot yet fully replicate the complexity of living biological systems or the study of animals in their natural environments.

Where animals must be used, they are treated with dignity and cared for by professionally qualified staff. All research involving animals is conducted to the highest standards, with full recognition of the ethical responsibility involved in working with living species.