Welfare Science

Lab Animal Primate Research and 3Rs Progress

Progress in applying 3Rs principles to non-human primate research and the welfare improvements achieved.

Key Facts

Non-human primates are used in regulatory safety testing and biomedical research
UK holds around 3,000 non-human primates in research establishments
Social housing requirements for research primates have improved welfare significantly
Positive reinforcement training reduces procedural stress in primates
The long-term goal of replacement requires significant investment in alternatives

Welfare Considerations

Non-human primates have complex social and cognitive needs that make their use in research an especially significant welfare concern requiring robust 3Rs application.

What You Can Do

Support research into primate research alternatives through NC3Rs
Advocate for social housing and enrichment as minimum standards for research primates
Learn about progress in developing non-primate alternatives for safety testing