University Of Edinburgh Recognised With Sector-leading Award For Animal Research Openness

Edinburgh has been awarded Leaders in Openness status by Understanding Animal Research, an organisation that aims to improve understanding of the humane use of animals in research in the UK.

Ongoing efforts
First awarded Leader in Openness status in 2020, the University reapplied for the accolade this year, submitting evidence showing how its activities around animal research remain sector-leading in 2023.

The application assessed how the University demonstrates openness about animal research through its dedicated webpages, media work and engagement with students, staff and members of the public.

The University’s application was judged by a panel made up of members of the public.

Sustained commitment
In 2014, the University joined 120 UK institutions in signing a Concordat on Openness on Animal Research, a commitment to be more transparent about the use of animals in scientific, medical and veterinary research.

Since then, it has engaged in a sustained initiative to meet the commitments of the Concordat, which include being clear about when, how and why we use animals in research and providing opportunities for the public to find out about our work.

Openness award
Leaders in Openness was established in 2019 to recognise Concordat signatories who continually go beyond complying with the commitment, leading the sector in meeting best-practice recommendations.

Edinburgh is one of 14 institutions in the UK to hold the accolade, which is held for three years.

We are delighted to have been recognised once again as a Leader in Openness in animal research. We believe strongly in engaging the public with our work and in supporting their understanding of what can be challenging issues. This status is an important signal of our values and further strengthens our commitment to openness in future.

Dr Catherine Martin
Vice-Principal Corporate Services