For centuries, scientists have worked with animals to help answer some of the most important questions in biomedical science. But many, perhaps even most of the diseases that affect people around the world still have no treatment. Most scientists argue that research involving animals is essential if we are to find cures, vaccines and treatments for them. But nowadays, more than 100 million animals are used in research across the world every year. In the UK, the annual figure has reached around 4 million. And though the UK sector is the most tightly regulated in the world, some of those animals still experience pain, suffering and distress.
So what’s the future for animal research? Are we able to replace it with more humane alternatives? And how important is a culture of care, not just to the animals themselves, but also the people who work with them?
Join us to debate the issues. On the panel will be:
• Wendy Jarrett CEO of Understanding Animal Research (UAR)
• Penny Hawkins Head of the Animals in Science Department, RSPCA Science and Policy Group
• Celean Camp from CEO of Fund for the Replacement of Animals in Medical Experiments (FRAME)
The panel will be by chaired by Mike Addelman, communications lead for animal research at The University of Manchester and the event will kick off with the signing of a public pledge to a culture of care at The University of Manchester’s animal research unit by Dr Maria Kamper, Director of the unit.
Register online to attend. Once registered, please bring a printout of your ticket or an electric copy with you so it can be checked on admission.
If you have a question you'd like the panellists - and our audience- to debate, send it to us, along with your name and occupation, to animal.research@manchester.ac.uk
