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For scientific, ethical and economic reasons, cell-based, computational and other non-animal study methods are being increasingly developed and implemented by biomedical researchers. Additionally, federal regulations and guidelines state that researchers proposing animal-based methods in research must demonstrate that they have considered the methods that can avoid or minimize animal use. In some cases in the U.S. and abroad, the use of alternatives to animals in experiments is required. Yet, there is currently little training on the availability and efficacy of these critical research tools and reports show that researchers and administrators are often not familiar with these techniques. At the completion of this course, which includes guest lectures from renowned subject matter experts, students will:

  • Understand the past and current use of animals in research and the limitations of animal models
  • Be familiar with the wide range of non-animal research, testing and training techniques available
  • Understand laws and policies in the US and internationally that relate to alternatives to animal research
  • Be able to search for and identify appropriate non-animal methods using available databases and other resources

This course is intended for undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in biomedical sciences programs, university and industry faculty and staff researchers, bioethicists, grant reviewers, and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee coordinators and members. No prerequisite is needed.

Course Goal and Objectives: The development and utilization of non-animal methods (often called “alternatives”) in biomedical research, testing and education is a burgeoning field. The course will introduce students to the range of non-animal research methods available, their efficacy, how to identify and implement them and policies affecting their use.

Course Number: BIOL-40313
Credit: 3.00 unit(s)