Student / Public
Discover the basics of animal research and its role in scientific breakthroughs.
Policymaker
Discover the basics of animal research and its role in scientific breakthroughs.
Researcher
Discover the basics of animal research and its role in scientific breakthroughs.
What is Animal Research?
Behind every medical advance, there is research, and often, animals have played a crucial role.
Biomedical research using animals helps scientists understand diseases and develop new treatments for both humans and animals.
Animals can suffer from many of the same conditions as humans, such as cancer, heart disease, epilepsy and infectious diseases.
Research with animals has been essential to develop vaccines, medicines and therapies that save lives.
Beyond Animal Research
Responsible science means always striving for better alternatives.
The principle of the 3Rs — Replacement, Reduction and Refinement — has been guiding research since 1959.
Scientists in Europe are required by law to replace animals with alternatives whenever possible, reduce the number of animals used, and refine methods to minimize pain and improve welfare.
Alongside these principles, new non-animal methods are being developed and put into practice.
The European Animal Research Association (EARA) is a not-for-profit association with over 230 member organisations in 48 countries worldwide, working to inform and engage the public, the media and policymakers on the continued need for, and benefits of, the humane use of animals in biomedical, veterinary, environmental and other areas of scientific research.
With offices in London, Brussels and Lisbon, EARA connects members to policy developments, strengthens sector-wide openness, and provides practical communications support when it matters most.
What membership gives you:
- Engage with policy and stakeholders
- Improve public understanding through transparency
- Practical support for communications and preparedness
- Stay informed and connected
Patient Discovery Project
The Patient Discovery Project is a core EARA initiative designed to strengthen dialogue between patients, patient organisations and the biomedical research community. It aligns closely with EARA’s mission to provide accurate, evidence-based information about the role of animal research and to promote openness, transparency and trust in science.
By inviting patients and their families into research environments, the project offers a clear and honest view of how biomedical research works, why animals are still needed when no viable alternatives exist, and how high ethical and welfare standards are applied. This helps increase the relevance of research, align scientific work with societal expectations and real-world needs and ultimately strengthen the quality and impact of biomedical research.