Website is step change for openness on research involving animals

27 Jul 2016

The University of Manchester has published a new website highlighting its ground-breaking work on research involving animals

The new website, one of the most transparent and accessible of its kind in the UK, reflects the University’s commitment to the Concordat on openness in animal research launched by higher education four years ago.

It will form the core of a dedicated communications and engagement strategy on the issue of research involving animals, and further expansion of communications activity is planned over the next 12 months.

The website for the first time publishes comprehensive data on animals involved in research at the University requiring a Home Office license and easy to understand summaries of every project carried out at the University which requires Home Office approval.

It uses cutting edge web design and newly commissioned images to create an accessible and attractive online environment. 

The site brings to life some powerful illustrations of the outcomes of the University’s  work with animals – whether that includes Home Office approved or conservation work - and provide comprehensive answers to some of the major misconceptions about this area of work. 

We illustrate our ground-breaking work with the community, and highlight our governance and culture so the public can understand and have confidence in our processes, which ensure we follow highest of standards in terms of the welfare of our animals and the scientific rigour of that work.

Professor Nalin Thakkar, Associate Vice President of Compliance, Risk and Research Integrity at The University of Manchester, said: “We’re very proud of this new website which we believe is a step forward in the way higher education can and should talk about its research involving animals.

“We believe this website shows how seriously we take the issue of welfare, and the importance making our work accessible and open.

“The case studies we publish on the website show how research involving animals is crucial for the improving our understanding health and disease and developing new medicines and cutting edge medical technologies for both humans and animals.”