Research
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Animal research at TUM
Responsibility, transparency, and established structures for animal welfare
TUM plays an active role in advancing medical, technical, social, ecological, and agricultural developments. This also includes animal research. Such science is conducted with the utmost care and a deep sense of responsibility. Transparency, animal welfare, and the development of alternatives to animal testing are integral to the animal-based research strategy. This approach is anchored throughout the university and reflects a clear commitment to respect the environment and all living beings.
Commitment
- TUM actively pursues the 3R principle (Replace, Reduce, Refine): Where possible, animal experiments are avoided, the number of animals used is kept to a minimum, and the most humane methods are employed. One focus is on developing alternative methods that will further reduce the number of animal experiments in the future.
- The university supports researchers in fulfilling their responsibility for transparent animal experimentation and promotes proactive and open communication. That is why TUM is a member of the "Transparent Animal Research Initiative" (Initiative Transparente Tierversuche).
- TUM creates structures for responsible and future-oriented animal research: The TUM Animal Welfare and Science Council (TUM AWC) is an additional committee that strengthens animal welfare and organizational standards and promotes the use of alternative and complementary methods in research at TUM.
3R principle and TUM 3R+
The TUM 3R+ concept expands the established 3R principle. Beyond the replacement, reduction and refinement of animal experiments, the TUM 3R+ concept also includes innovation for strengthening animal welfare and alternative methods.
Animal welfare network
The TUM AWC fosters cooperation between research institutions and supports responsible animal-based science in line with animal welfare principles.
Promoting alternatives
TUM actively promotes alternative research methods and develops innovative scientific approaches that do not rely on animal-based studies.
Research with animals
For specific issues, animal experiments remain essential for progress. Many new therapeutic approaches, for example, are based on animal studies, some of which are still required by law.
Animal-friendly husbandry
Excellent science and respect for animals: Professional teams take care of the animals, ensuring they receive the adequate care and nutrition.
Engagement and contact
Do you have further questions and would like to learn more about TUM's commitment? Here, you will find FAQs on animal research, as well as contact persons with contact details.
Communication about animal testing
The question of the acceptability of animal testing is the subject of intense public debate. TUM is actively committed to open communication about animal experimentation. It is a member of the Transparent Animal Testing Initiative.