Animal Free Research UK

Animal Free Research UK works for a world where animals and humans lead healthy, happy lives, free from suffering. We support scientists to deliver better treatments for patients faster by championing the transition from animal-based to human-specific medical research. For over 53 years our scientists have pushed the boundaries of animal-free technologies to work towards a cure for major diseases like cancer, heart disease and dementia.
Since 1970 we have invested over £11 million in innovative research which has undergone detailed peer review scrutiny by our Scientific Advisory Panel, which consists of a range of expert scientists from various disciplines, carefully vetted and appointed.

Animal research is failing both humans and animals. It relies on the belief that animals are similar enough to us to make research results human-specific, but different enough to make it morally acceptable to harm them in the pursuit of human benefit. This belief is unfounded.
More than 92% of drugs that show promise in animal tests and proceed into human trials fail to benefit patients – mostly for reasons of poor efficacy and safety that animal testing failed to predict.

Thankfully, there are other ways of compiling crucial medical research data than using animals. Hope lies in non-animal methods, known as New Approach Methodologies (NAMs): innovative techniques that harness human biology to investigate diseases and potential treatments. These methods are not only more ethical but also offer accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Utilising human cells, tissues, and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and organ-on-a-chip systems, NAMs provide insights directly relevant to human health.

We are dedicated to supporting scientists, policymakers, and regulators in overcoming barriers to transitioning toward animal-free research. We do this by influencing decision makers in Government and funding groundbreaking science through our grants programmes.

We have recently launched the Centre for Human Specific Research which will support more researchers to transition from animals to research using NAMs. 

We are focussing on supporting mid-career researchers who can make key decisions to influence the direction of medical research - although we are here to support researchers at every stage of their journey.

The Centre for Human Specific Research is more than an initiative. It’s a movement towards ethical science. By working together to make long-term change, we’re respecting animal lives while pursuing better outcomes for humans. Compassionate research is a win-win, ensuring that our scientific advances align with our values. 

Website – www.animalfreeresearchuk.org