A proposed higher education institution-based Three Rs advisory service

Area of Science:

• Animal research ethics
• Higher education science
• Information science

Background:

• The University of Oxford's Ethical Review Process (ERP) is initiating a pilot scheme.
• A collaborative advisory service for the Three Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) will be established within UK higher education institutions.
• Existing UK academic infrastructure, including science base and IT services, offers potential for this initiative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a collaborative UK higher education institution-based Three Rs advisory service.
• To identify, research, and validate refinement and replacement alternatives for animal use in research.
• To minimize duplication of effort and ensure efficient use of limited resources.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative approach based on the concept of the critically appraised topic.
• Leveraging the skills of information professionals and principles of evidence-based healthcare.
• Dissemination of results and online training via web-based systems.

Main Results:

• The pilot scheme aims to provide assistance to university-based project licence applicants.
• The service will contribute to the wider application of the Three Rs in research.
• Potential for future development to include reduction strategies and experimental design.

Conclusions:

• UK universities are well-positioned to provide training in good research practice.
• A successful pilot can form the basis for broader implementation of Three Rs strategies.
• Partnership with research councils is crucial for funding and training initiatives.